Wines Unspecified Ðurinski - Leona

Viniou Reviews

Ðurinski Cuvée Leona is a sweet white wine hailing from the heart of central Croatia. While it bears a non-vintage designation, it showcases the expertise of the Ðurinski estate in crafting a cuvée that balances richness and freshness. The precise blend of grape varieties is not specified, but white sweet wines from this region often employ aromatic local varieties such as Graševina (Welschriesling), Traminac (Gewürztraminer), or Muscat, sometimes complemented by international grapes. The liquoreux style suggests a higher residual sugar content, most likely achieved through late harvest or careful selection of botrytised grapes. This meticulous vinification process typically results in a wine with golden hues, exuberant aromas of honey, dried apricots, and candied citrus, and a lush palate that delivers sweetness balanced by lively acidity.

Central Croatia boasts a long-standing winemaking tradition, shaped by a continental climate with pronounced seasonal contrasts—cold winters and warm, sun-filled summers offer ideal grape ripening conditions. The region’s rolling hills are underpinned by a mosaic of soils, principally clay and limestone, which contribute depth and freshness to the wines. Historical ties to Austro-Hungarian viticulture can often be sensed in the commitment to quality and elegance found in local sweet wines.

Ðurinski Cuvée Leona’s decadent profile lends itself beautifully to classic pairings with pâté de foie gras, blue cheeses, or a rich duck terrine. Fruit-focused desserts, such as peach tart, pear clafoutis, or a Croat apple strudel (štrudla od jabuka) are equally delightful matches, as are regional cheeses with a touch of honey. To allow the bouquet to unfold fully, serve this wine well-chilled at 8-10°C. Enjoy it in a medium-sized glass to concentrate the aromas, and allow it a few minutes to breathe in the glass before tasting to appreciate the harmony of sweetness and vivid acidity.