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Wine of the Week, September 7–13: Damjanić Rosé Penelope 2025.

Published: 07.09.2026

Ivo Kozarčanin
Ivo Kozarčanin
Bakhov Sin

We can expect sunny and hot weather during the first few days of the second week of September, with temperatures reaching nearly 35 degrees. Afterward, rain will bring some relief, and by the end of the week, you might even need a blanket for sleeping. Morning temperatures will drop to as low as 15 degrees in some areas. Wild week is time for...

Damjanić’s Rosé Penelope 2025 is made from the Borgonja variety, which until recently was believed to be a close relative of the French Gamay. Genetic analysis revealed it to be Frankovka, Central Europe’s most potent and significant red grape variety, though the old name has naturally persisted in Istria. This Rosé is distinguished by a beautiful, cheerful color, fine aromas of berry fruit, relatively low alcohol content, and a pronounced freshness inherent to the variety further enhanced by the mineral-rich soil where the vines grow. Penelope was Odysseus’s faithful wife, who waited decades for the wanderer to return from his travels. After tasting this wine, many will likely remain faithful to the Penelope in their glass as well.

Winery

 Damjanić, Fuškulin 99, Poreč

 

Region

Croatian Istria and Kvarner, Western Istria

 

Harvest

2025.

 

Alcohol

12%

 

Sweetness

Dry

 

Serving

Malvazija glass, 10 degrees

 

Pairing

Raw blue fish with citrus fruits, goat cheese 

 

Price

€12.99 (Vinea Gold)