Maurer Kadarka Rock & Roll 2020

Serbia Fruška Gora

New Kadarka from Oszkar Maurer!

Grapes from a vineyard planted by Oszkar in 2009 on the volcanic slopes of the mountain Fruška Gora in northern Serbia.

With very low yield, just 200gr per vine, and this time aged  for 10 months in terracotta amphora this is surely an intriguing novelty in Oszkar’s already wide range of Kadarka wines.

Terracotta can be thought of as a middle ground between stainless steel vessels and oak barrels. Stainless steel allows an oxygen-free environment and many say it doesn’t impart any flavors to the wine. Oak, on the other hand, allows for ample oxygen to reach the juice giving the wine a deep and rich texture. Aromas of  vanilla, cloves, butterscotch, resin and toast are very often the result of oak aging.

Like oak clay is porous, allowing some micro-oxidation to occur, but it’s a neutral material that won’t impart any additional woody flavors. At least, not in this case.

Some winemakers use beeswax or resin to rub and seal the inside of the amphora, which certainly leaves some trace on the aroma of the wine. Think here about Greek Retsina.

Kadarka Rock & Roll has an intense deep pink color with ruby reflections.

On the nose aromas of redcurrant, ripe raspberry , cherries and plums.

Tender floral tones of rose and mint freshness with a shadow of cinnamon.

The attack is fresh, dominated by primary fruity aromas of rosehip and sour cherries.

Bright acidity in perfect balance with complex mineral nuances.

Delicate, light tannins absorbed with a faint almond/marzipan whiff and dried cranberry finish conclude this charming and distinctive wine.