Cviček, a unique lighter red wine style from Slovenia, blending red and white grapes with low alcohol
This is a really interesting traditional style of wine that is extremely cheap locally, but which I think could have a bright future internationally. I tasted it at a restaurant in Sevnica, Slovenia.
Cviček PTP (the official designation) can be found exclusively in the Lower Carniola (Dolenjska) district, and legally it has to be a blend of red and white grapes, and it can’t be more than 10% alcohol.
The first records of this wine come from the end of the 17th century.
Permitted grape varieties are Žametna Črnina (between 40 and 60%), Modra Frankinja (Blaufränkisch), Portugalka and Šentlovrenka (maximum 20% of these), and then a bunch of white grape varieties, up to 35% of the blend. These are Kraljevina, Laski Rizling (Welschriesling), Rumeni Plavec, Zeleni Silvanec and Štajerska Belina.
Other rules include 6-9.5 g/l TA, rs below 2.5 g/l and free SO2 max 25 ppm. Around 8 million litres are produced each year.
This example is from Klet Krško (website https://www.klet-krsko.si/). It was cheaper per litre than the sparkling water in the restaurant I tried it in.
Cviček Original 2024 Dolenjska, Slovenia
9.5% alcohol. Three day maceration, then pressed when the cap rises, to create a light coloured red. Juicy and tart, and smashable with lovely fruit. Crisp with a nice sour twist. Lovely drinkability here: this is really good, with lots of energy. 88/100
