Wines Korcula Nerica - Pošip 60 - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The 2020 Nerica Cuvée Pošip 60 Orange Wine from Korčula is a compelling example of Croatia’s burgeoning reputation for artisanal wines. Crafted primarily from the Pošip grape, this orange wine owes its striking colour and depth to extended skin contact during fermentation—a hallmark of the style. The 2020 vintage brings forward ripe stone fruit notes, subtle citrus, aromatic herbs, and gentle tannins, resulting in a textured, complex palate. The Pošip variety, indigenous to Dalmatia and particularly Korčula, stands out for its aromatic intensity and natural acidity, both of which are beautifully preserved through minimal intervention winemaking practiced by Nerica. The orange wine method, with skins macerated for several days or more, confers amber hues and adds layers of dried apricot, orange peel, and a slightly nutty, saline finish that speaks of its maritime origins.

Korčula itself is a historic island in southern Dalmatia, renowned not just for its mediaeval walled town but also for ancient vineyards rooted in limestone and clay soils. The island enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, with constant breezes from the Adriatic moderating temperatures. This setting, combined with abundant sunlight and well-draining soils, yields grapes of exceptional ripeness and flavour concentration, while the proximity to the sea lends a fresh, saline character unique to island wines. Korčula’s winemaking heritage stretches back centuries, with Pošip being the island’s most celebrated white varietal and one of Croatia’s prime oenological treasures.

This style of orange wine, with its pronounced structure and aromatic complexity, pairs wonderfully with robust and flavourful cuisine. Consider serving it alongside Dalmatian octopus salad, roasted white fish drizzled with olive oil and lemon, or seafood risotto. Its texture supports richer dishes like grilled monkfish, roast chicken with Mediterranean herbs, or aged sheep’s cheese typical of the region. Earthy vegetarian fare, such as mushroom risotto or pumpkin gnocchi, also finds a harmonious match.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the wine slightly chilled, ideally at 10-12°C. Decanting for thirty minutes can help the aromatic profile to fully develop. Orange wines such as this often continue to evolve in the glass, so take your time to savour their changing nuance, complexity, and sense of place.