Wines Plesivica Korak - Chardonnay Sur Lie - 2022

Viniou Reviews

The Korak Chardonnay Sur Lie 2022 from Plesivica in Central Croatia is an elegant white wine that exemplifies both the potential of the Chardonnay grape and meticulous winemaking. Crafted using grapes harvested from the cool, rolling hills of Plesivica, this wine benefits from "sur lie" ageing, meaning it has rested on fine lees for an extended period. This technique imparts added texture, depth, and complexity, enhancing the grape’s inherent freshness with creamy, nutty notes and a subtle hint of brioche. The 2022 vintage was marked by favourable weather conditions, preserving vibrant acidity and purity of fruit, resulting in a wine that shows both lively citrus and delicate stone fruit aromas, supported by whispers of minerality and gentle oak.

Plesivica, often referred to as the "Croatian Champagne," is renowned for its unique terroir. The region sits at higher altitudes, with predominantly limestone and marl soils that lend structure and tension to the wines. With a continental climate characterised by warm days and cool nights, Plesivica wines carry pronounced aromatic intensity and crispness. Croatian winemaking tradition in this region stretches back centuries, with a recent renaissance focusing on quality, particularly for sparkling wines and refined whites such as this Chardonnay. The small, family-run estates, like the Korak domaine, are at the forefront of this movement, blending traditional artisanal methods with modern expertise.

This Chardonnay Sur Lie is a versatile companion at the table. Its creamy texture and balanced acidity make it particularly suitable with seafood risotto, grilled octopus, or pan-fried river fish—dishes often found in Croatian gastronomy. It also shines alongside roast chicken with lemon and herbs, creamy mushroom pasta, or soft cheeses such as Brie or local Croatian cow’s milk varieties.

For an optimal tasting experience, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing it a few minutes in the glass will let its layered bouquet unfold beautifully. This 2022 vintage promises immediate pleasure, though a year or two of cellaring can further harmonise its leesy complexity.