Solara Natural Red 2023

Get to know: Solara Natural Red

A juicy and vibrant Romanian natural red wine from the forward-thinking Cramele Recaș.

Tasting Note

Solara Natural Red is an easygoing yet characterful blend that bursts with bright fruit and a touch of rustic charm. Deep ruby in colour with aromas of black cherry, wild plum, bramble, and a dash of spice. On the palate, this Merlot is light on its feet with soft tannins, juicy dark berry flavours and a subtle earthy twist. It finishes with a fresh, slightly crunchy lift that makes it wonderfully drinkable. Made with minimal intervention, this natural wine delivers pure fruit expression without any fuss.

Top food pairings:

• Aubergine parmigiana or mushroom ragu
• Chargrilled lamb or smoky BBQ skewers
• Taleggio or aged Manchego cheese

Kate Says

"If you're curious about natural wine but not quite ready for the wild stuff, this is a brilliant place to start. It’s fresh, fruity, and super drinkable – no funky edges, just smooth, juicy red with a bit of character."

Producer Info

Cramele Recaș is Romania’s most dynamic and successful winery, run by Englishman Philip Cox and his Romanian wife Elvira. Since taking over in the late 1980s, they’ve transformed unloved vineyards into a thriving modern estate that’s now recognised internationally for its quality. Their philosophy is simple: organic grapes, minimal intervention, and wines that over-deliver on flavour and value. With an international winemaking team and state-of-the-art facilities, Recaș has become a benchmark producer in Eastern Europe.

How it’s made:

• Varieties: Merlot
• Organically grown grapes, harvested for ripeness and vibrancy
• Destemmed and gently macerated for five days on skins
• Fermentation with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks
• Natural stabilisation outdoors during the Romanian winter, bottled unfiltered with no additives

Good to know:

• Region: Panciu, Romania
• Style: Red, still, natural
• Closure: Natural cork
• Vegan: Yes
• Organic: Yes
• ABV: 14.5%
• Vintage: 2023

Why we love it:

This Romanian natural red offers bags of juicy bramble fruit, soft tannins, and a fresh finish that makes it a joy to drink. It’s approachable, versatile, and a brilliant introduction to the world of natural wine – perfect for easygoing dinners and relaxed evenings with friends.