Kosovan Vranac in Waitrose

Coincidentally, a case of Waitrose samples that arrived on my doorstep also contained one of the Kosovan wines I tried this week at the weird wines tasting. I figured it would be a nice lunch wine, especially on a bright spring day. It is made from the Vranac variety that is unique to the Balkans, and which is (apparently) known for its berry/forest fruit character and firm tannins. It's more than just a curiosity wine; this is something I'd be happy to drink on its own merits.

Stonecastel Vranac Premium 2007 Rahoveci Valley, Kosovo
A delightfully fresh, juicy cherry and plum flavoured red wine with good acidity and a bit of tannic grip. This is modern-styled with fresh primary fruit, but it has a little more acidity and structure than many commercial wines, which makes it a great food companion. It's a bit like a well made Loire red in style, perhaps crossed with a Beaujolais. Impressive. 88/100 (£7.99 Waitrose, but £5.99 15 April-17 May)