Carso o Carso-Kras

"Carso", or even "Carso-Kras", is a Protected Designation of Origin that includes a wide range of white and red wines, some with specification of the grape: red, red Riserva, Chardonnay, Glera, Malvasia (also Reserve), Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon (also Reserve), Traminer, Vitouska (also Reserve), Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot (also Reserve), Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso (also Reserve) and Terrano (also Reserve).

Grapes

At least 70% of the red "Carso", even in the Riserva variant, is produced from Terrano grapes, alongside (maximum 30%) other red grapes, suitable for cultivation in the provinces of Trieste and Gorizia. The types with specific indications, on the other hand, must contain, for a minimum quota of 85%, grapes from the relative vine. For the remaining part (maximum 15%), also in this case, similarly coloured grape varieties may be used, as specified above.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

Beyond the peculiarities of each type, which reflect the characteristics of the prevailing grape variety, there are recurring elements that unite the wines "Carso-Kras", depending on whether they are white or red. The whites have a straw yellow colour, with possible golden reflections of different intensity. On the palate they are pleasantly soft and release intense and clear aromas of fruity and spicy. The reds, on the other hand, have a deep ruby hue, which sometimes becomes purplish. The aroma shows a clear personality, characterized by decisive herbaceous notes, while the flavor is full-bodied, with good acidity. The minimum total alcoholic strength by volume is 11.5% vol. (12% vol. in the Riserva variants). The exceptions are Glera (10.5% vol.), Terrano (10.5% vol.) and Terrano Riserva (11% vol.).

Grape production area

The production area, in the provinces of Trieste and Gorizia, is characterized by karst soils, with hilly terrain and reliefs that do not exceed 650 meters above sea level.

Specificity and historical notes

Historical sources confirm that, already in 178 BC, year of the Roman conquest, the territories of the Karst-Kras had developed the cultivation of the vine.