At a glance

Producer

Jetty Cairn Ridge

Region

Primarily Romania or possibly a New World producer using Romanian varietals

Grape variety

Feteasca Neagra

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$15-$25

Tasting profile

Rich dark fruit (black cherry, plum), hints of spice, pepper, slight herbal notes, moderate tannins and fresh acidity

Evolution: Fruit will mature into more dried notes, tannins soften and integrate, secondary notes of leather and earth develop

At peak: Balanced maturity with full-bodied complexity, silky tannins, and persistent finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high

Tannins

Medium

Alcohol

13-14%

Aging potential

7-10 years from vintage, possibly extending to 12 years in ideal conditions given producer quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2028

Optimal window

2020 to 2030

Current status

Still youthful and has good aging potential

Current condition

Drinking well with evolving complexity and moderate tannin structure

Feteasca Neagra from good producers generally softens tannins and develops tertiary complexity around 8-12 years after vintage. The 2015 vintage gives it ample time to balance youth and maturity now with continued peak drinking possible for several more years.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled red meats, lamb, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and dishes with moderate spice.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — Allows for aeration to soften tannins and reveal bouquet

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Producer likely employs standard viticulture practices with possible focus on reducing chemical inputs but no clear organic or biodynamic certification

Feteasca Neagra is a traditional Romanian variety; smaller producers often use mixed conventional and sustainable methods but organic/biodynamic certification is rare in this price tier. Packaging is standard glass bottle; no noted advanced conservation or carbon neutral programs. Environmental impact is moderate due to transportation from Eastern Europe but not significant compared to large bulk wines.