Clai - Ottocento Crni - Merlot

Clai's Ottocento Crni comes from Istria, Croatia's wine-growing peninsula on the northern Adriatic, where Mediterranean warmth meets cooler continental air. Made entirely from Merlot, it reflects a producer working outside the mainstream of Croatian winemaking, giving the grape a distinctly Istrian voice rather than a Bordeaux-style treatment.

Expect a red with dark fruit, savoury depth and firm structure, built for the table rather than easy sipping. Serve at 16-18°C alongside beef, lamb or venison, or set it next to charcuterie and hard cheeses for an easy, unfussy pairing on board.