At a glance

Producer

Ridge

Region

Croatia

Grape variety

Plavac Mali

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$50

Tasting profile

Ripe black cherry, blackberry, Mediterranean herbs, pepper, graphite, leathery notes

Evolution: Will develop more earthy, savory, and complex tertiary aromas with age

At peak: Balanced fruit and savory complexity with softened tannins and persistent finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balanced

Tannins

Medium-high, well-integrated

Alcohol

14.0%

Aging potential

15-20 years from vintage due to structure, tannin, and acidity

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2030

Optimal window

2020 to 2035

Current status

Drinking well, approaching peak maturity

Current condition

Wine shows mature fruit complexity with integrated tannins and structure

Based on the grape variety Plavac Mali and the producer Ridge’s style, the wine is structured with robust tannins and acidity that support long aging. 2015 vintage was favorable in Croatian coastal regions, justifying a peak window extending to 2030. Optimal drinking will be reached as tannins integrate and secondary notes develop.

Food pairing

Grilled meats, lamb, hearty stews, Mediterranean dishes with herbs, aged cheeses

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic development

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Ridge implements water conservation and reduced chemical use; uses eco-friendly packaging materials

While Ridge’s Croatian bottling is moderately sustainable with good agricultural practices and reduced environmental impact in vineyard management, it lacks formal organic or biodynamic certifications. Packaging is environmentally conscious, but international exports increase carbon footprint somewhat.