Wines Koper Domacija Ražman - Plavina Extra Brut - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Domacija Ražman’s Cuvée Plavina Extra Brut 2020 is a Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine, crafted using the traditional method—méthode traditionnelle—where the secondary fermentation occurs in bottle, lending complexity and finesse. This extra brut style is notably dry, preserving the wine’s purity, tension, and mineral focus. Made primarily from dark-skinned grapes apt for sparkling wine—likely local Plavina or other indigenous varieties—this cuvée is distinguished by vivid freshness, fine persistent mousse, and elegant aromas often hinting at red berries, crisp orchard fruit, and a subtle autolytic note of brioche or roasted nuts from extended lees ageing.

The Primorska region, especially around Koper in Slovenia’s Littoral, is celebrated for its diverse terroirs with influences from the nearby Adriatic Sea and the Alpine foothills. The climate is Mediterranean, marked by warm summers and mild winters, promoting excellent grape ripeness while retaining vibrant acidity, essential for sparkling wine. Soils here are varied—there’s flysch, limestone, and marl—which impart a pronounced minerality and structure to the wines. The area’s winemaking traditions draw from Venetian, Austrian, and Balkan influences, blending ancient and modern techniques to produce distinct and characterful wines. Domacija Ražman exemplifies this heritage, focusing on local varieties and high-quality production methods.

This extra brut sparkling wine is a versatile partner at the table. Its dry, racy style complements seafood brilliantly—think fresh oysters, scallops crudo, or classical Adriatic grilled prawns. It pairs beautifully with light starters such as herb-marinated white fish carpaccio or a tangy goat’s cheese salad. For a regional experience, try it with Istrian pršut (dry-cured ham) and freshly baked bread, or accompany it with a plate of fritaja, a local omelette with wild asparagus. Beyond appetisers, its crispness can cut through the richness of creamy risottos or delicate poultry dishes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Cuvée Plavina Extra Brut well-chilled at 6-8°C. Use flutes or tulip-shaped glasses to concentrate the delightful aromas and maintain the fine bead. Pour gently and let it open in the glass for a moment before sipping to appreciate its aromatic complexity and pristine balance.