Vinalia x Marof, Rdeče

Founded by Stanko Polanič, Marof seeks to showcase the untapped potential of Slovenia’s Prekmurje region. Winemaker Uroš Valcl brings his passion for honest, terroir-driven wines, shaped by his upbringing in his family’s vineyard. Situated on a historic aristocratic estate, Marof employs minimal intervention winemaking, focusing on blends with native and international varieties. Their wines, known for structure and ageability are only released after years of careful maturation.

Slovenia, a small country at the crossroads of major wine regions, showcases a rich cultural and winemaking heritage. Goričko is a subzone of the larger Prekmurje PDO, Slovenia’s easternmost appellation abutting both Hungary and Austria. Here, the country’s hills give way for the great Pannonian Plain, a geographical force defining much of North Central Europe’s wine country. The region specializes in local varieties like Furmint (Šipon) and Blaufränkisch, as well as produces pumpkin seed oil, a local delicacy.

A critically important red grape variety across the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, Blaufränkisch was long of uncertain origins. Despite what its name suggests, it is not native to France, but instead to eastern Slovenia, as proven by a 2016 genetic study. Blaufränkisch serves as the foundation for several Central European blends, including with Zweigelt, its progeny with whom it shares much vineyard area in Austria. Blaufränkisch is enjoyed for its complex earthy, spicy flavors and medium-bodied plummy character.