E Kuqja e Beratit – Vlosh
The Kuqja e Beratit is a red wine with strong personality, made from 100% Vlosh grapes, a unique Albanian indigenous variety. Vlosh belongs to the rare group of grapes with red pulp, a distinctive characteristic that makes it particularly valuable in the world of wine.
The Vlosh vineyards grow in the hilly soils of Malas, at an altitude between 150 and 200 meters above sea level, arranged in terraced formations with a giropoggio system. Here, the pedoclimatic conditions are exceptionally favorable: the presence of hills to the east and the proximity of the Adriatic coast, only a few kilometers to the west, ensure an ideal balance of ventilation, temperature variation, and grape ripening. This microclimate produces high-quality clusters capable of expressing the full aromatic and structural potential of the variety.
The Vlosh variety ripens late, belonging to the second harvest period: picking usually takes place between late August and the first week of September. Grapes harvested at the correct level of aromatic maturity develop a powerful structure and a richness of complex aromas, recalling the region’s wild flora and ripe red fruits.
Vinification involves fermentation at controlled temperatures for about two weeks, aimed at preserving aromatic integrity while extracting optimal color and tannins. After an initial period of aging in steel, the wine matures in large wooden barrels and later in barriques, which give it smoothness, complexity, and elegance. A final aging period in glass follows before release, harmonizing the profile and making the wine ready for consumption.
Organoleptic Analysis
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Appearance: it presents an intense ruby red color, clear and bright, with good consistency suggesting structure and body.
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Nose: the bouquet is fairly intense and persistent, with fine and elegant aromas. Notes of local Mediterranean scrub flowers emerge alongside complex fruit tones: wild blackberry, ripe cherry, and plum, giving depth and typicity to the aromatic profile.
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Palate: the wine is dry, warm, and smooth, with present, high-quality tannins. Acidity is slightly low, making it “not very fresh,” but it remains balanced thanks to the strong structure and the minerality typical of the region’s soils. Its marked sapidity adds dynamism and character. Overall, this is an balanced, intense, and very persistent wine, leaving a long and elegant finish.
Structure and Style
The Kuqja e Beratit – Vlosh is a full-bodied wine, with a solid and harmonious structure, expressing both strength and elegance. Its excellent quality derives not only from the rare and valuable grape variety but also from the perfect synergy between terroir, tradition, and modern oenological techniques.
Final Considerations
Ready at the time of release, Vlosh represents a red wine that blends tradition and innovation. It tells the winemaking story of Albania, offering an intense and enveloping sensory experience. Ideal with red meat dishes, game, aged cheeses, and structured preparations, it is also perfect for important convivial moments, where its aromatic richness and persistence best express the nobility of this rare and fascinating indigenous grape variety.
