Skin Contact Wines

Herbal & Textured

Located in Snežatno in the Goriška Brda zone of Slovenia, near the border of Italy, Štekar winery is known for producing wines in the traditional manner, with extended skin contact and little or no sulphur added.  The hilly rugged terrain is marked with monuments to both world wars.

Rebula, also known as Ribolla Gialla, is a grape native to Friuli in Italy and this little corner of western Slovenia. As the natural fermentation began, the skins remained with the must for 24 days before being removed. The wine remained in giant Acacia wood barrels for eight months before being bottled without filtration. The result is expressive and spectacular; aromatic and inviting on the nose, the Rebula showcases yellow fruit, a firm structure. 

Orange wine made from Ribolla Gialla grapes pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes due to its unique flavour profile and aromatic qualities. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetable dishes, as the wine’s acidity complements the sweetness of the vegetables. Additionally, it goes well with savoury dishes like pork loin or chicken marinated in herbs, and it can also enhance the flavours of a cheese platter, especially with aged cheeses or those with a bit of funk, like aged Gouda or blue cheese. For a delightful finish, try it with a citrus-based dessert or a fruit tart, which echoes the wine's fruity notes.

Salty & Fresh

Joan Ramón Escoda has been shaking the pillars of winemaking in his home-country and abroad since the 90's. He is an absolute anarchist, a radical winemaker, a rock'n'roller and a grass-roots innovator; and his wines are everything but banal.

Mas del Gaio is the top white from Celler Escoda-Sanahuja. An old-vine expression from rustic limestone vineyards next to the winery, blending Garnacha Blanca, Macabeu, and Parellada. Garnacha Blanca and Macabeu are fermented together. Once everything is combined, the wine is aged mostly in large amphora and old French barrels. Mas del Gaio has aromas of stone fruit, lemon verbena, and fuzzy peach skins, with a long, fleshy and salty finish. Fantastic acidity and viscosity from the lees aging. Tropical too, with subtle notes of passion fruit.

Pair it with fish dishes and cured cheeses.

Spicy & Tropical

Husband and wife duo Ilya and Nadia started Leaning Post winery in Niagara over 10 years ago. Initially a virtual set up, the winery now located on Highway 8, has become a reference producer in Niagara.

Harvested on September 25, 2021, the grapes were destemmed, into concrete tanks where it went through a spontaneous fermentation. It remained in concrete and aged on skins for 25 days, then it was gently pressed into clay amphora (17%) and stainless steel (83%). This wine was racked only a handful of times prior to being bottled unfiltered on April 13, 2022.

This wine represents the evolving nature of wine in Niagara. Orange marmalade, jalapeño pepper jelly, and passionfruit dominate the nose and palate, while elderflower honey, cream and lemon dominate the palate with a rich and oily texture. It is all tied together with bracing acidity, gorgeous texture and a seam of fine tannin. Chill and drink as it warms to reveal new facets of its unique personality.

Enjoy with fish tacos or fish and chips.