Overview

Bukovski Cuvée is a red wine from Vinarija Matalj in Negotinska Krajina, awarded Gold at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2025. After 18 months of barrique aging, this cuvée demonstrates an exceptional balance between power and elegance – a flagship of Serbian red wine production.

In the glass

Deep ruby garnet with purple highlights, dense viscosity, and a vibrant sheen.

On the nose

The bouquet combines damp earth, violets, and freshly baked toast with an intense fruit core of currants, blackberries, and blueberries. Fine notes of dark chocolate and mint lend depth and precision to the aroma profile.

On the palate

Full-bodied, dense, and velvety with fine-grained tannins and lively acidity. The finish is long, extractive, and spicy, supported by ripe forest fruits, plums, and cocoa. The 18 months of barrique aging are clearly integrated without wood dominance.

Food pairing recommendations

Beef stews, roasted game with mushroom sauce, aged hard cheese, truffle dishes, dark bittersweet chocolate.

Serving recommendations

• Temperature: 16–18 °C
• Decanting time: 45–60 minutes
• Glass: Large Bordeaux glass

Origin

Vinarija Matalj in Negotin cultivates 27 hectares in Negotinska Krajina, where calcareous soils and sunny locations provide the basis for structured, long-lasting red wines. With Falstaff ratings of 96–97 points and the award "Serbia's Best Winery 2024," Matalj is among the leaders in the Serbian wine scene.

Technical details

• Aging: 18 months in barrique
• Region: Negotinska Krajina – Negotinski Rejon, Serbia
• Vintage: 2020/2021
• Award: Gold, Decanter World Wine Awards 2025