Wines Korcula Bire - Grk - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Bire Grk 2015 from Korčula is a distinctive Croatian white wine, made exclusively from the rare indigenous grape variety Grk. This unique varietal thrives near the village of Lumbarda, located on the sun-kissed island of Korčula in Dalmatia. The 2015 vintage benefitted from an excellent growing season, with warm, dry weather balanced by cooling sea breezes, contributing to the wine's vibrant acidity and aromatic complexity. The vinification for Grk at Bire is traditional, typically involving gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel to preserve the grape’s aromatic purity and mineral character, although some producers might incorporate subtle ageing on fine lees to enhance texture and depth.

Korčula sits in the heart of southern Dalmatia, celebrated for its ancient winemaking tradition dating back to the Greeks and Romans. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, perfectly suited to grape cultivation. The island's soils are predominantly sandy and limestone-rich, providing excellent drainage and imparting a distinctive mineral note to the wine. Korčula’s wine heritage is intimately linked with rare local grapes like Grk, which is almost exclusively grown here, adding to the island’s vinous allure.

Bire Grk’s lively acidity, delicate floral notes, and characteristic saline finish make it exceptionally food-friendly. Traditional Dalmatian cuisine provides perfect pairing options: try it with grilled Adriatic seafood, such as squid or white fish simply dressed with olive oil and fresh herbs. It also shines alongside fresh oysters, prawn risotto, or brudet, a local fish stew. For a more international match, consider goat’s cheese, Mediterranean salads, or light poultry dishes.

For the optimal tasting experience, serve Bire Grk 2015 chilled to around 10-12°C. This temperature highlights its vibrant aromatic profile and lively finish. Decanting is not necessary, but pouring into tulip-shaped white wine glasses will help you fully appreciate its nuanced aromatics and elegant structure.