Cracking Croatian Wines
Mirena Bagur and author Mark Horkey gave a fascinating commentary on the complexity of Croatian wines and their regions. Many more people than usual were interested enough to take the Croatian sampler case.
March 22, 2023
Mirena Bagur and author Mark Horkey gave a fascinating commentary on the complexity of Croatian wines and their regions. Many more people than usual were interested enough to take the Croatian sampler case.
The first two white wines sang with a vibrancy rare in other countries' versions of their grapes. The 2021 Štampar Pušipel is an exciting version of ferment from neighboring Hungary. The 2020 Kabola Secco Momjan Muscat is a dry rendition of the normally sweet grape. It was as good as several more expensive Alsatian versions.
Both were exciting and impressive on the palate. They overshadowed the more sedate 2019 Dubrovački Podrumi Malvasija Dubrovačka, but that had its own in a more subdued appeal in the complexity of its delicately nuanced fruit.
The 2015 Bibic Sangreal Merlot stood out among the reds like with a punch and drive unusual for the grape. Neither Bordeaux nor California, given airing, grew into rich and complex wine. The 2016 Komarna 7 Plavic Mali, Croatia's cousin to Zinfandel, was bright, lively, centered, and concentrated. People liked it a lot.
White
2021 Štampar Pušipel Classic Clear yellow-green. Herbal notes, citrus fruits, and mild floral notes dominate the scent. The taste is fine and rounded, with alcohol desirably mild. The acids are lively, refreshing, and have a counterbalance. $29.99/bottle, Case 23.99
2020 Kabola Secco Muškat Momjanski: -Greenish yellow. It is delicate, elegant, and playful on the nose. The aroma presents first with a flowery note of chamomile, followed by notes of acacia honey, candied orange peel, and pineapple. The wine is dry, balanced, and intense, with peach notes in the aftertaste. $31/bottle, Case 26.99
2019 Dubrovački Podrumi Malvasija Dubrovačka Characteristic smell and taste contains the aromas of dried white fruits, honey, and flowers. $32/bottle, Case 26.99
Red
2017 Ritoša Teran: Dark ruby. Aromas of red rose and pepper with mixed berry fruit and pleasant freshness. $32/bottle, Case 26.99
2015 Bibic Sangreal Merlot: From the vineyard in Plastovo, this dry Merlot is produced in a classic method. 24 months in barrique and classic Dalmatian terroir. Dark berries, chocolate, and coffee all show in this full-bodied red. Rounded with fine tannins. $35/bottle, Case 29.99
2016 Komarna 7 Plavac Mali: Blackberry. Plum, raisins, pepper, and chocolate. 24 months in barrique adds complexity and a touch of vanilla in the finish. 2$3.99/bottle, Case 20.49
Or mix any 12 at their case prices
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- Peter Hemenway
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