This is a very old vine grown in northeastern Italy, Istria, and Primorje and is autochthonous to the region. It is not particularly choosy regarding soil but does favour those with a high mineral content. The vine grows abundantly, with regular yield. There are several varieties of Refoçk: the " Peduncolo rosso" ("red stem") is a variant grown mostly in Italy which has never become popular in Slovenia because of its low yield; the more common "Peduncolo verde" ("green stem") predominantly grown in Primorje; and a very special variant grown in the Kras area of Primorje (see Kraçki Teran).
Refoçk is a dark red wine, ruby (characteristic of the "Peduncolo rosso") to violet, moderate in alcohol and acids. The young wine is lively with a fruity taste suggestive of raspberry and black currant. Refoçk matures quickly, and in moderately aged wine the variety of fruity aromas blend into a more subdued and elegant bouquet. Refoçk does not benefit from protracted aging.
Although it is also grown in other winegrowing areas of Primorje, Refoçk should really be considered a specialty of the Koper area.
Refoçk should be served at 16 °C (60.8 °F), or if it is particularly rich in tannin, at 18 °C (64.4 °F). It goes best with charcuterie, game, and grilled poultry.
