2021 Thoma 24 Merlot & Cabernet Franc

Overview & Context

From Winnice Czajkowski, one of Poland’s largest and most forward-looking estates, comes Thoma 24 — a Bordeaux-inspired blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, today’s Winesiders Wine of The Day. While Charbielin pushes cool-climate whites, Czajkowski is intent on showing that Polish terroir can carry structured, elegant reds. With its modern label and bold stance, Thoma 24 is very much a statement wine.

Aromas & Nose

Lifted, expressive aromatics of dark cherries, ripe plums, and blackberries open the show. Subtler layers of violets, cocoa powder, and clove peek through. A hint of tobacco leaf and dried herbs underscores the Cabernet Franc element.

Palate & Flavor Profile

Polished and smooth — the first impression is dark fruit, fleshy but never heavy. Black cherry and plum dominate the mid-palate, joined by bittersweet chocolate and a brush of baking spice. Tannins are present yet velvety, lending support without grip. The acidity keeps everything lively, preventing the 13.5% alcohol from weighing down the wine.

Balance & Harmony

Where many Polish reds can feel rustic, Thoma 24 aims for refinement. The fruit, oak, tannin, and alcohol are in clear alignment. It’s medium-bodied, layered, and shows restraint — more elegance than sheer power.

Drinkability, Cellaring & Pairing

Accessible now, though it will hold for another 3–5 years as secondary notes of spice and leather deepen. Pair with roasted duck, braised beef cheeks, venison, or hard cheeses. It also works with mushroom-based dishes where earthy flavors echo the wine’s darker undertones.

Verdict

Thoma 24 is an ambitious red blend from Poland, but it succeeds in balancing familiarity with intrigue. It nods to Bordeaux while letting Polish terroir add its accent. This is not just a curiosity — it’s a confident, well-structured red that shows the credibility of Poland’s emerging wine landscape.

And that’s why the Thoma 24 is today’s, Winesiders Wine of The Day.