Strekov 1075 Fred #12

Vintage: NV

Origin: Strekov, Slovakia

Grapes: Dunaj, Alibernet, Blauer Portugieser

Alcohol: 13%

Zsolt Sütö works organically on clay-loam and limestone soils in Slovakia’s Nitra region. 'Fred #12' is a multi-vintage blend of equal parts 2023 Blauer Portugieser, 2022 Alibernet, and 2023 Dunaj. The Portugieser is partially foot-crushed and fermented in open vats before resting in a 2,500-litre Austrian oak cask, while the Alibernet and Dunaj age in smaller Zemplén oak barrels. Everything is blended and bottled unfined, unfiltered, and with zero added sulphur.

It hits a sweet spot between dark fruit weight and a crisp, energetic lift. Expect blackcurrant, tart cranberry, and sour cherry backed by a hint of forest floor earthiness. Give it a light chill to 14–16°C and serve it alongside roast pork, mushroom risotto, or a board of hard cheese and charcuterie.