Cuvèe Natura 2020 Istenic

Cuvée Natura Extra Brut 2020: A Special Chardonnay Sparkling Wine

Cuvée Natura Extra Brut 2020 is a unique sparkling wine made from carefully selected Chardonnay grapes, treated with great care and love before harvest. This special sparkling wine uses only free-run juice, obtained by pressing the grapes immediately in the vineyard right after picking to prevent deterioration. About two kilograms of grapes are needed for each bottle, ensuring top quality.

Vineyard Philosophy for Cuvée Natura Extra Brut 2020

The Chardonnay vines are trained with the Guyot system and grown on steep, windy hillside vineyards with narrow valleys, providing an ideal microclimate and nutrient-rich soils. Harvesting is done manually in September to guarantee perfect ripeness. This natural balance allows healthy, fully mature fruit to be produced.

Winemaking Approach for Cuvée Natura Extra Brut 2020

Alcoholic fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature of 18°C in stainless steel tanks, followed by the traditional second fermentation in the bottle. Fermentation is carefully managed to preserve primary aromas. The disgorging line uses a jet technology that minimizes oxygen exposure, keeping the sparkling wine almost oxygen-free until disgorging and the addition of the dosage. This ensures extraordinary freshness and long-lasting fine bubbles.

Tasting Notes of Cuvée Natura Extra Brut 2020

The sparkling wine shows a bright yellow color with fine and persistent perlage. On the palate, it is fresh, harmonious, and dry, with delicate and fragrant aromas of apple and pear, making it elegant and versatile.

Technical Sheet

• Vintage: 2020

• Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay

• Training System: Guyot

• Harvest: Manual, September

• Color: Bright white

• Alcohol Content: 12%

• Soil: Steep vineyards, windy hillside valleys

• Winemaking: Traditional method, second fermentation in bottle, fermentation at 18°C in stainless steel

• Sulfites: Very low due to jet disgorging technology

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Penine Istenič: History of a Slovenian Sparkling Wine Icon

Founded in 1968 by Janez Istenič, a pioneer of traditional method sparkling wine production in Slovenia, Penine Istenič stands as a true icon in the Slovenian wine scene. After studying in France’s Champagne region, Janez brought his passion for sparkling wine back home, recognizing similar terroir qualities in Slovenia. The winery was born to create high-quality sparkling wines that still embody elegance and tradition today. The family business has passed to the new generation, with Miha Istenič continuing this legacy with enthusiasm, balancing history and innovation.

Vineyard Philosophy at Penine Istenič

Penine Istenič carefully tends vineyards in the Bizeljsko region, a prime area for both native and international grape varieties. The mineral-rich, well-drained soils are essential for producing healthy, perfectly ripe grapes. The estate favors the local Rumeni Plavec grape, known for its fresh acidity and unique character, alongside classic Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Sustainable vineyard practices respect the environment and promote biodiversity, allowing the vines to thrive naturally in balanced conditions.

Winemaking Approach at Penine Istenič

Penine Istenič blends traditional techniques with modern technology to craft elegant traditional method sparkling wines. Initial fermentation occurs in stainless steel or wooden barrels, followed by secondary fermentation in the bottle to create fine, persistent bubbles. The winery emphasizes low sulfur usage and natural wine methods, including spontaneous fermentations and extended lees aging. This meticulous approach yields complex, balanced wines with refined aromas and a creamy, lasting mousse.

Signature Wines of Penine Istenič

No. 1 Brut: The Flagship Traditional Method Sparkling Wine

The No. 1 Brut is Penine Istenič’s iconic cuvée, blending Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Rumeni Plavec. It stands out for its vibrant freshness, harmonious structure, and a fine, persistent perlage that has earned international awards.

Rare: Tradition Meets Innovation

Rare showcases the winery’s experimental side, featuring four fermentations including skin maceration and malolactic fermentation in wood. This unique sparkling wine offers aromatic complexity and bold character, a true reflection of careful vineyard and cellar work.

Cuvée Natura: Natural Sparkling Wine Without Added Sulfites

With Cuvée Natura, Penine Istenič presents a natural traditional method sparkling wine made without added sulfites. Innovative oxygen removal techniques ensure freshness and clarity, resulting in authentic, environmentally respectful bubbles.

Prestige: Elegance and Extended Aging

The Prestige blend of Chardonnay and Rumeni Plavec is aged on lees for at least 36 months, delivering elegance, complexity, and a refined taste that has won multiple international medals.