Croatia by the Glass - January 2022 Issue
This new year, I am forgoing my typical ‘year in review’ for something a bit more personal and invite you to join me on an exciting Croatian wine experience.
Moving forward, ‘Croatia by the Glass’ will be a series of blog posts highlighting Croatian wines I know and love, that are worth seeking out.
Since actual travel still presents some challenges, I will take you on a trip through Croatia, one glass at a time, hoping to inspire your taste buds.
The first leg of our Croatian journey includes the following fan favorites from some of the most beloved wine regions of Croatia (see thumbnail photo from left to right):
Wine #1: Merga Victa Pošip 2019 Smokvica Dalmatia
In the old language of Dalmatian, ‘Merga Victa’ means ‘path to the water’ referring to the water ponds feeding the village of Smokvica, located on the island of Korćula in South Dalmatia. The vineyards are situated on rocky hillsides, and the work in the vineyards must be done by hand. The soil is a rocky red-tinted soil, also known as Terra Rossa (a red clay-like soil).
Legend has it that the Pošip variety was discovered in the forest by a farmer back in the 1880s. The farmer planted the grapevine in his own vineyards, and Pošip became the white variety of the region.
Tasting Notes: A light to medium bodied white wine with notes of citrus, stone fruit, white flowers. The palate is crisp with the same lovely flavors of lemon zest, stone fruit, floral, and mineral/saline acidity. It is a fantastic aperitif wine and pairs well with light fairs.
Wine #2: Vina Ritoša Malvazija Istarska 2019 Istria
Malvazija Istarska is one of the oldest indigenous grape varieties from the Istrian peninsula in northwest Croatia. It is THE Istrian white grape variety, producing high quality white wines. The Ritoša family was originally a family of farmers in Northern Istria. They started planting vines in the early 2000s when Ana Ritoša, daughter of the current owner, started to become interested in viticulture. Since graduating from the University of Zagreb with a master’s degree in Enology and Viticulture, Ana has been dedicated to growing quality grapes and producing the best quality wine possible.
The two main varieties grown at Ritoša are Malvazija Istarska and Teran, and a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Muscat.
Tasting Notes: This is a light Malvazija Istarska with aromas of stone fruit, acacia, green apples, and raw almonds. The acidity on the palate is lip-smacking. The floral aromas come through beautifully. This would be the perfect pairing with seafood.
Wine #3: Enjingi 2019 Graševina Kutjevo Slavonia
The Kutjevo appellation is in Croatia’s most northeastern wine region (Slavonia) bordering Hungary and known for growing Graševina (aka: Welschriesling), a white grape variety.
The Enjingi family has been producing wine for over 100 years. Their winemaking philosophy hasn’t changed since day one. They still use traditional grape varieties all while working with modern viticulture techniques to grow healthier grapes. The estate spreads out over 120 acres in one of the best appellations of the region.
Tasting Notes: This delicious Graševina is lime-yellow in color. The nose is intense with notes of apples, honey, and baking spices. The palate is structured and fresh with a crisp acidity. Pairs well with white meats and pasta with creamy sauce.
Wine #4: Vina Fakin Teran 2019 Motovun Istria
Fakin winery is in Motovun, a small medieval town in Northern Istria. The estate consists of approximately 74 acres of Istrian varieties: Malvazija Istarska, Teran, and Muškat. The young and talented winemaker, Marko Fakin, established the winery in 2010 from his family vineyards. His very first Teran won the acclaimed national Croatian wine competition as ‘best Teran’, and he was awarded ‘Winemaker of the Year.’ As per Marko, the region of Motovun is ideal for growing Malvazija Istarska and Teran, benefitting from the mix of Mediterranean and Continental climates.
Tasting notes: Ruby red color. Full and strong bodied with a flavor and nose of forest fruits. Its acidity and tannins give it roundness and a long aftertaste, ideal for longer aging. Teran is a steak’s best friend.
Wine #5: Zlatan Otok Plavac Mali 2015 Šibenik Dalmatia
Plavac Mali (“plah-vahtz mah-lee”)
Zlatan Otok Winery was founded in 1986 by Zlatan Plenković in the village of Sveta Nedjelja, on the island of Hvar in Southern Dalmatia. Today, the winery is run by his sons, Marin and Nicola Plenković. The head winemaker, Davor Šestanović, a master’s graduate in viticulture and enology from the University of Zagreb, gained experience and deepened his knowledge while interning at Ridge Vineyard and Lytton Springs wineries in California. Šestanović applies his knowledge to produce award winning wines year in and year out. Today, the Plenković family owns approximately 296 acres of vineyards split between Hvar Island and the mainland, growing mostly Plavac Mali and Pošip, among other varieties.
Tasting notes: Aromas of dark cherries, prunes and earthy notes predominate on the nose, while the palate is full of dark berries and peppery spices. A medium bodied wine with soft tannins that would pair well with seafood stew, red meat, and grilled fish.
To find these wines near you, go to Wine-Searcher. Some of them are available via: Croatian Premium Wine and ship to most permitted US States.
Stay tuned for more…
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