Maurer – Bakator 1909 vintage 2022
Serbia, Subotica
Maurer – Bakator 1909 is a stunning example of natural orange wine from Serbia, made from the unique and ancient grape variety Bakator. This wine showcases the remarkable potential of the Bakator grape, which has been cultivated in the Carpathian Basin since the 16th century.
The grapes come from ungrafted vines planted in 1909, which survived phylloxera and two world wars.
Bakator 1909 undergoes short maceration, but it achieves an impressive extraction of color resulting in a golden-deep amber hue that is slightly hazy.
The nose is complex and enticing, with aromas of lemon zest, apple, grapefruit, passion fruit, blackcurrant leaf and thyme. The wine also reveals some spicy notes of cinnamon, licorice and pepper, adding depth and intrigue.
A remarkable feature of this wine is that part of the harvest was affected by noble rot, a fungus that enhances the aromas and flavors of the grapes. This imparts a unique aroma of honey, beeswax and ginger, increasing the wine's herbal character.
The palate offers a dry and refreshing experience with medium acidity and gentle tannins. The wine has high balance and great length with a long clean finish, leaving a lasting impression of freshness and complexity. The flavors are consistent with the aromas, with dominant citrus character and some tropical and herbal nuances. Additionally, the wine displays a mineral undertone that elegantly reflects its terroir and natural winemaking approach.
This wine is best enjoyed slightly chilled, with cheese, charcuterie or spicy dishes.
