Wines Plesivica Šoškic - Pinot Gris - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Šoškic’s 2020 Cuvée Pinot Gris hails from the Plesivica appellation in Central Croatia, a region acclaimed for its elegant, cool-climate white wines. This bottling comprises 100% Pinot Gris, harvested in 2020, noted for its youthful vibrancy and purity of fruit. While detailed information on the vinification process is not provided, Croatian producers in this area typically emphasise gentle pressing and controlled fermentation in stainless steel or neutral vessels. This practice is designed to preserve the delicacy and aromatic character of the Pinot Gris grape, yielding a crisp, dry white with subtle floral notes, ripe pear, citrus, and hints of almond and white spice.

Plesivica is a picturesque, hilly micro-region to the west of Zagreb, often likened to Burgundy for its terrain and climate. The high altitude, with slopes extending up to 400 metres, provides excellent drainage and exposure, allowing grapes to mature slowly and retain racy acidity. The continental climate brings warm days and cool nights, enhancing aromatic development and freshness in the wines. The region’s calcareous and clay-rich soils further contribute to structure and minerality, giving these whites a precise, linear finish that is both refreshing and complex. Historically, Plesivica has long been a crossroads for winemaking, blending Central European influences with the unique fingerprint of Croatian terroir.

For food pairing, this dry, fragrant Pinot Gris shines alongside fresh seafood such as lightly seared sea bass or grilled prawns with lemon and herbs. It pairs delightfully with poultry dishes in light sauces, spring vegetable risotto, and soft cheeses. For a local touch, consider serving it with štrukli, a Croatian baked cheese pastry, or with river fish dishes endemic to the region.

Serve Šoškic’s Cuvée Pinot Gris well-chilled to accentuate its freshness, ideally between 8-10°C. Decanting is unnecessary, but do allow the wine a few minutes in the glass to reveal its aromatic complexity. This elegant white is well-suited for early enjoyment, offering clear insight into the character of Plesivica’s contemporary whites.