Blaufrankisch 2022 Roka

Blaufränkisch 2022 Roka – Natural Wines from Styria

Introduction

The Blaufränkisch 2022 Roka represents the pinnacle of natural wines from Styria, Slovenia. Made from carefully selected Modra Frankinja (Blaufränkisch) grapes, this wine reflects Roka’s low-intervention, sustainable winemaking approach. Fresh, elegant, and full of character, it expresses the unique terroir of the south-west facing vineyards in the Jeruzalem/Ormož region.

Vineyard Details

Roka’s Blaufränkisch vineyards are planted on clay and sandy soils, facing south-west at about 320 meters above sea level. The cultivated area covers 1.25 hectares, with low yields of 1–1.5 kg per vine. The average age of the vines exceeds 50 years, providing complexity and depth to the wine. No herbicides or pesticides are used, and mechanical intervention is minimal, respecting the philosophy of natural viticulture.

Vinification and Aging

Grapes are hand-harvested and carefully selected. Fermentation occurs in 500-liter open wooden fermenters with native yeasts and coarse lees, without temperature control. Malolactic fermentation takes place spontaneously the following spring, and sulfur dioxide is added only minimally.

After fermentation, the wine ages 12 months in Pauscha “Pure” 500-liter barrels, followed by 6 months in 1,000-liter egg-shaped clay and sand amphorae (Oeuf du Beaune). No fining or filtration is performed, resulting in an authentic and lively wine.

Characteristics and Production

The Blaufränkisch 2022 Roka is distinguished by elegance and complexity. Production is limited to around 1,500 individually numbered bottles. It combines balanced structure, intense red fruit aromas, subtle spice notes, and a long, harmonious finish.

Tasting Notes:

• Color: Intense ruby red with violet highlights

• Nose: Ripe cherry, raspberry, and delicate spice aromas

• Palate: Fresh and enveloping, soft tannins, persistent finish

Food Pairing: Ideal with grilled red meats, game, aged cheeses, and spicy Central European dishes.

Technical Sheet

• Variety: 100% Modra Frankinja (Blaufränkisch)

• Appellation: Kakovostno Vino ZGP

• Aging: 12 months in wood + 6 months in amphora

• SO₂ Addition: 40 mg/l

• Production: Approximately 1,500 bottles

• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C

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Natural Wines from Styria – Roka Winery

Introduction

Natural wines from Styria: Roka is a small artisanal winery located in Kog, in the heart of Slovenian Styria, born from the dream of Irish couple Liam and Sinead Cabot. Since 2007, they have cultivated vineyards with sustainable methods, crafting rare bottles that tell the story of the unique terroir of Jeruzalem/Ormož.

History of Roka Winery

The story of Roka began when Liam and Sinead Cabot, already active in Ireland in wine import and distribution, decided to challenge themselves as producers. Following the advice of Liam’s father, who knew Slovenia well, they searched for the ideal location. In 2007, they found their home and a vineyard in Kog, in the Jeruzalem/Ormož district of Styria. After five years of study and trials, in 2012 they planted half a hectare of Blaufränkisch, a bold choice in an area historically dedicated to white wines. The name “Roka,” meaning “hand” in Slovenian, reflects their artisanal, hands-on approach.

Philosophy in the Vineyard

Roka’s vineyards cover two hectares, with 1.25 in production, on steep slopes facing southwest to west. The clay-rich soils host both local and international varieties such as Šipon (Furmint), Laški Rizling (Italian Riesling), and Modra Frankinja (Blaufränkisch). No herbicides or pesticides are used, and yields are kept very low (1–1.5 kg per vine) to ensure concentration and quality. The Jeruzalem microclimate, with its marked temperature variations, allows for balanced ripening and complex aromas while preserving freshness.

Approach in the Cellar

Roka’s winemaking philosophy is based on minimal intervention: spontaneous fermentation, minimal sulphur only when needed, and no enological additives. This allows the wines to express the grape and terroir in their purest form. The first official vintage was 2013, but it took a few more years to reach the desired style. Roka’s wines have won praise from Jancis Robinson, Decanter, and Falstaff, who compared their finesse to Burgundy’s Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Identity and Terroir

Roka is a distinctive voice in the world of natural wines from Styria, producing only 3,500 bottles per year. Each wine is the product of meticulous manual work and deep respect for the land. The sunny slopes and cool breezes of Jeruzalem/Ormož provide ideal conditions for high-quality viticulture. Roka is proof that passion and dedication can turn a dream into an internationally recognized wine reality.