Wines Unspecified Bolfan - Pinot Noir - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Bolfan’s 2017 Cuvée Pinot Noir presents an elegant expression of the variety hailing from Croatia’s mountainous heartland. This red, crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, speaks of both precision and subtlety in its approach. The 2017 vintage benefited from favourable weather, yielding a fresh but mature character in the glass. Expect distinctive red fruit aromas on the nose—particularly cherries and redcurrants—layered with gentle hints of forest floor and a delicate trace of sweet spice. The palate delivers a fine, silky structure, graceful acidity, and tannins that are both supportive and refined. Despite the absence of detailed vinification notes, it is apparent the winemaking process favours purity of fruit and a light touch, allowing the terroir and grape to shine.

The Croatian Uplands region, known in the local language as “Hrvatsko zagorje”, is shaped by its hilly, continental landscape. The climate is marked by crisp, cold winters and warm summers, enabling a slow and balanced ripening—ideal for Pinot Noir, a variety that thrives in cooler climates. The soils are predominantly clay-limestone, lending structure and minerality to the wines. While Croatia boasts a long and storied winemaking tradition dating back millennia, its mountainous region is only recently gaining international recognition for high-quality, finesse-driven wines, particularly from indigenous grapes and select classic varieties like Pinot Noir.

As for food pairings, this wine’s freshness and gentle tannic grip make it an excellent partner for poultry dishes, such as herb-roasted chicken or duck breast with cherry sauce. It would also sing alongside Croatian specialities like purica s mlincima (turkey with homemade pasta) or even a wild mushroom risotto. Its subtlety means it works beautifully with lightly spiced dishes and mild cheeses too.

To enjoy its full aromatic spectrum, serve this Pinot Noir lightly chilled, ideally between 14-16°C. Consider opening the bottle half an hour prior to serving, allowing the wine to breathe and reveal its nuanced bouquet and supple texture.