At a glance

Producer

Testament Winery

Region

Dalmatia, Croatia

Grape variety

Babić (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

€18-25 per bottle retail (750ml), depending on market and provenance

Tasting profile

Dark cherry, blackberry, dried Mediterranean herbs, earthy minerality; secondary notes of leather, tobacco, and subtle dried fig

Evolution: Fresh fruit gives way to more savory components—herbal, floral, and mineral qualities—while tannins soften, and tertiary notes emerge

At peak: Elegantly balanced fruit, spice, and earth; plush mouthfeel; complex bouquet combining red/black fruit, wild herbs, and umami-driven undertones

Structure

Acidity

Fresh to vibrant, characteristic of coastal Dalmatian reds; still lively, contributing to age-worthiness

Tannins

Medium to medium-plus, initially robust and rustic, now integrating and softening while retaining structure

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 13-14% ABV), well integrated, supporting the body without overwhelming heat

Aging potential

Approximately 10-12 years from vintage; will hold and possibly improve over next 2-4 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2027

Optimal window

2021 to 2028

Current status

Approaching peak; drinking very well now with potential to age further

Current condition

Matured, well integrated, showing tertiary notes while retaining core fruit; no signs of decline

The 2024-2027 period is peak due to optimal interplay between softened tannins, preserved acidity, and matured tertiary aromatics. Early aging would lack the integration, while post-peak the wine risks diminishing fruit, excessive oxidation, and fading complexity.

Food pairing

Excellent with grilled lamb, beef stews, hard aged cheeses (e.g., Paški sir), Dalmatian prosciutto, and dishes with rosemary or Mediterranean spices; as it evolves, pair with richer game, braised meats, and truffle-infused dishes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium to medium-plus tannins that are integrating, suggesting it can benefit from aeration to enhance its aromas and soften any remaining rusticity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Organic viticulture, hand-harvesting, minimal intervention in vineyard and winery, indigenous yeast fermentations

Testament Winery uses organically farmed vineyards and sustainable practices, reducing chemical use and promoting biodiversity. Their traditional methods and local focus result in a lighter environmental impact compared to larger producers, though absence of international certification may under-represent these efforts in some markets.