During the 19th century, the Teran grape variety reigned supreme in Istria, covering over 80% of the vineyard area.
Often mistaken for Refosco, it was later proven that Teran and Refosco (specifically Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso from Italy) are distinct varieties.
Today, Teran is a cherished indigenous grape of Istria, with about 230 hectares of plantings, predominantly in central Istria where the higher, airy vineyards facing south provide ideal conditions.
Early Mentions and International Recognition
The earliest mention of Teran dates back to a 1390 document where Marescalchi and Dalmasso noted that 20 ceramic bottles of Teran were presented to the king's envoy. In the late 19th century, Teran's quality faced scrutiny. At the Wine Fair in Bolzano in 1886 and later in Bordeaux in 1887, Teran received poor ratings. This led to the establishment of experimental vineyards in Pazin and Poreč to develop better production techniques.
Historical Records and Recognition
The rich history of Teran cultivation is well-documented. One notable record is the 1824 classification of grape varieties in Barban, Istria, by Canon Petar Stanković. Another significant document is an article by Karl Hugues, director of the Poreč Institute, titled "Come si possa ingentilire il Terrano" (How to Soften the Teran), published in the magazine La Provincia dell'Istria. These historical texts highlight the importance and recognition of Teran in Istrian viticulture.
Redemption and Acclaim
The efforts to improve Teran's quality bore fruit. By 1902, Teran received much higher ratings at a wine exhibition in Turin, where it was ranked alongside top Spanish and French wines. This marked a significant turnaround, cementing Teran's place among the esteemed wines of Europe.
Characteristics and Aromas of Teran
Teran is celebrated for its distinctive characteristics. The wine's color ranges from garnet red to a deep, almost purple hue. Its aroma profile is rich with black and red fruits, including sour cherries, sweet cherries, fern, and blackberry. The wine's high acidity and substantial tannins provide a robust and full-bodied taste, leaving a pleasant sweetness on the tongue as the acids subside. The high extract content, often exceeding 25 to 30 g/L, enhances its strength and complexity, making it an excellent candidate for blending with other red varieties.
Beyond its taste and aroma, Teran is also valued for its high phenolic content, which includes tannins and anthocyanins. These compounds are believed to offer curative benefits, adding another layer of appeal to this historic wine.
Wine Tasting
- Tomaz, Barbarossa Teran 100%: Displays a rich ruby-red color with a captivating purple hue that shimmers elegantly in the glass. The wine presents a refined and distinctive aroma, characterized by prominent notes of mature raspberry. This fruity bouquet is nuanced and instantly recognizable. On the palate, it reveals its complexity with a balanced interplay of flavors. It showcases a notable presence of total acids and a gentle astringency, which contribute to its robust structure. The high extract content enhances its full-bodied character, delivering a strong yet harmoniously blended taste.
- Trapan Wines, The One Teran-Syrah (2016):Ppresents a dark red color, suggestive of its rich and complex character, with medium tannins that hint at its structured body. Cedar wood and dark berry fruit dominate the aromatic profile, showcasing the well-trained Syrah's signature. These elements intertwine seamlessly with the earthy "terra rossa" notes characteristic of Teran, creating a harmonious and intriguing bouquet. On the palate, it combines the earthy and raw qualities of Teran with the richness and fragrance of Syrah. The result is a well-balanced wine with a high extract that glides smoothly over the palate.
Conclusion
Teran's journey from being the most widespread grape in 19th-century Istria to facing challenges and eventually gaining international acclaim is a testament to its resilience and the dedication of Istrian winemakers. Today, Teran continues to thrive, offering wine lovers a unique taste of Istria's rich viticultural heritage. With its robust flavor, high phenolic content, and historical significance, Teran stands as a symbol of Istria's enduring winemaking tradition.
Source: Vinistra