Wines Goriska Brda Klet De Baguer - Chardonnay - Sauvignon Blanc - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Klet De Baguer’s 2017 white from Goriška Brda is a classic illustration of Primorska’s deft blending tradition, bringing together Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The Chardonnay provides body, roundness and notes of ripe white fruits, while Sauvignon Blanc lifts the blend with its freshness, citrus and subtle herbaceous touches. The 2017 vintage, marked by a temperate spring and warm, dry summer, favours concentration and vibrancy, resulting in a wine that balances aromatic expressive qualities with a pleasing, precise structure.

The Goriška Brda appellation, nestled on Slovenia’s western border with Italy, benefits from a mild sub-Mediterranean climate, with gentle breezes from the Adriatic Sea and cooling influences from the Julian Alps. These climatic factors foster slow, even ripening, ideal for crafting balanced and elegant whites. The soils are predominantly marl and sandstone—so-called “opoka”—which promote minerality and nuanced aromatics, while the region’s long-standing wine tradition, shaped by both Venetian and Austro-Hungarian cultural influences, encourages an approach that marries precision and expressiveness.

As for food pairings, this cuvée’s lively acidity and subtle texture render it highly versatile at the table. It will beautifully complement seafood dishes such as grilled Adriatic prawns, sea bass carpaccio or shellfish risotto, thanks to the Sauvignon’s freshness. The Chardonnay component means it matches well with creamy poultry dishes, such as chicken in white wine sauce or turkey with herbed butter. For a true taste of the region, consider pairing with Frika, a traditional cheese omelette, or lightly aged local Tolminc cheese.

For service, chill the wine to 8-10°C to highlight its aromatic finesse and vibrant mouthfeel, allowing the flavours to unfold gracefully without masking the blend’s subtlety. A medium-sized white wine glass will let the bouquet express its complexity, making for a delightful tasting experience.