Domaine Batič, located in the Vipava Valley of western Slovenia near the Italian border, traces its winemaking lineage back to 1592. Guided by Miha Batič, the estate practices strict biodynamic viticulture according to the lunar cycle, producing deeply spiritual, low-intervention wines. The Vipava Valley has a unique microclimate where Mediterranean warmth meets cold Alpine winds, known locally as the Burja, driving high natural acidity and thick phenolic development in the grapes.

The 2020 Cabernet Franc is grown on steep, terraced vineyards of flysch, a layered sediment of marl and sandstone. Harvested by hand, the fruit undergoes spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts and long skin maceration in open oak vats. Aged for 24 months in Slovenian oak barrels, the wine is bottled according to biodynamic principles without fining or filtration. The 2020 vintage yields a profound, aromatic Cabernet Franc loaded with wild red berries, graphite, green peppercorn, and rustic earth.

Why You'll Love It

• An exceptional biodynamic expression of Slovenian Cabernet Franc from a historic 16th-century estate.
• Distinctive terroir influence from steep flysch soils and the cool Burja winds of the Vipava Valley.
• A highly expressive bouquet of sour cherries, dark plums, crushed stone, dried paprika, and cassis leaf.
• Medium-bodied with energetic acidity, fine-grained tannins, and a long, savory finish.

How To Serve It

• Serve at cool room temperature between 58°F and 62°F.
• We recommend decanting for 45 minutes to let the rustic mineral and herbal notes soften.
• Pour into Bordeaux stems to highlight its classic savory structure.
• Pair with roasted pork shoulder, venison goulash, grilled sausages, or aged mountain cheeses.