What You’re Drinking
- Wine: Zlatan Plavac Mali
- Vintage: 2020
- Producer: Zlatan Plenković Winery
- Region: North Dalmatia, Croatia
- Alcohol: 13.0%
- Style: Dry red, warm-climate Mediterranean
Plavac Mali is genetically linked to Zinfandel, and you feel that immediately — ripe fruit, darker tones, and a little swagger. But unlike many New World Zins, this stays grounded. The acidity and herbal notes keep it honest.
How It Tastes (Real Talk)
- Dark cherry and black plum
- Dried Mediterranean herbs
- A touch of baking spice
- Subtle coastal salinity on the finish
This is not jammy. Not sweet. And definitely not shy. Think rugby forward, not figure skater.
The Price Reality Check
- Regular price: $34.99
- Sale price: $24.49
- Buy-6 price: $22.04
At $35, this is a niche buy for adventurous drinkers. At $22–24? That’s European craftsmanship at grocery-store pricing. I’d stack this against plenty of $30+ Spanish and Southern Italian reds without blinking.
When This Wine Wins
- Winter grilling (yes, even in Michigan)
- Lamb, beef, venison, or smoked sausages
- Hearty stews and braises
- When you want a bold red without Napa pricing
This is not a Tuesday-night pizza wine. This is a “snowstorm outside, cast-iron inside” bottle.
