Wines Zagorje Cmrecnjak - Pušipel Sur Lie - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Cmrečnjak's Cuvée Pušipel Sur Lie 2021 is a distinctive Croatian white wine originating from the Zagorje appellation in Central Croatia. This cuvée is based predominantly on the Pušipel grape, a local variety closely related to Furmint, which thrives in the continental climate of this region. The term "Sur Lie" suggests that the wine has spent time maturing on its fine lees, a traditional winemaking practice that imparts texture, subtle complexity, and a gentle creaminess to the mouthfeel. The 2021 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, allowing the grape to develop expressive aromas of fresh green apple, citrus zest, and delicate white floral notes, complemented by a nuanced mineral edge and a touch of yeastiness from the ageing process.

Zagorje, situated in Croatia's hilly northern heartland, is renowned for its cool climate and mineral-rich soils, particularly limestone and clay. These conditions are ideal for producing vibrant, zesty wines with refreshing acidity, and Zagorje's winemaking tradition spans centuries, shaped by Austro-Hungarian influences and local know-how. The combination of pronounced diurnal temperature shifts and well-drained slopes allows varieties like Pušipel to maintain vibrancy and structure, resulting in wines that are both aromatic and precise. In recent years, the region has emerged as a source of some of Croatia’s most interesting and characterful whites.

This Pušipel Sur Lie is especially food-friendly. Its crisp acidity and subtle lees-derived complexity make it a perfect match for grilled river fish, prawn risotto, or tender chicken in a light herb sauce. For a truly regional pairing, consider it alongside "purica s mlincima" (roast turkey with flatbread), a classic dish from Zagreb’s hinterland. Also, its mineral backbone allows it to pair well with fresh goat cheese or a simple salad of cucumber and dill.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, at a temperature of around 10-12°C. This allows its aromatics to fully open and its textural finesse to come to the fore. Enjoy it now for its youthful energy or over the next two to three years for added complexity.