Rumeni Muscat 2022 Roka

Rumeni Muscat 2022 – Natural Wines from Styria

Introduction

The Rumeni Muscat 2022 by Roka is a natural wine that perfectly expresses the freshness and aromatic intensity of white Moscato grown in Styria, Slovenia. Made from carefully selected grapes from trusted vineyards, this wine reflects Roka’s philosophy: full respect for the terroir, minimal intervention in the vineyard and cellar, and meticulous attention to preserving the authentic characteristics of the fruit.

Vineyard Details

The grapes come from east-facing vineyards at 380 meters above sea level, on clay soil with a sandstone base at the edge of the Pannonian Plain. The vines average 35 years of age, providing structure and complexity. Viticulture is fully natural: no herbicides or pesticides and minimal mechanical intervention, with hand harvesting in mid-September 2022 to ensure full grape ripeness.

Winemaking and Aging

After gentle destemming, the grapes ferment spontaneously in open 500-liter conical oak fermenters. During the 7-day maceration, the skins remain in contact with the must, without temperature control or SO₂ addition. The wine is then pressed and completed in neutral 500-liter Pozvek oak barrels, with spontaneous malolactic fermentation in spring. Aging continues for 6 months in stainless steel, totaling around 18 months before bottling.

Tasting Notes

Color: bright straw yellow with golden reflections.
Aroma: intense notes of orange blossom, citrus, with subtle hints of honey and herbs.
Palate: fresh, harmonious, and vibrant, with delicate sweetness balanced by lively acidity, providing elegance and persistence.

Pairings

Perfect with fruit desserts, tarts, fresh cheeses, and light fish dishes. Also ideal as a standalone contemplative wine or aromatic aperitif.

Technical Sheet

• Region: Styria, Slovenia

• Variety: 100% Rumeni Muscat (Moscato Bianco)

• Appellation: Deželno Vino

• Altitude: 380 m a.s.l.

• Soil: Clay on sandstone

• Harvest: Manual, mid-September 2022

• Winemaking: Spontaneous fermentation in oak, 7-day maceration, spontaneous malolactic

• Aging: 2 months in neutral Pozvek oak + 6 months in steel

• SO₂ added: 35 mg/l total

• Production: 650 numbered bottles

• Serving temperature: 8-10°C

• Closure: Screw cap

See all products of Roka

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.