Wines Hvar PZ Svirce - Ivan Dolac Plavac Mali - 2018

PZ Svirce’s Cuvée Ivan Dolac Plavac Mali 2018 from Hvar is a striking example of Dalmatian red wine. Crafted predominantly from Plavac Mali, Croatia’s flagship red grape, this wine comes from vineyards terraced on the sun-drenched southern slopes of Hvar island, a microclimate favourable to full ripening and concentration. The 2018 vintage benefited from ample sunlight and Adriatic breezes, allowing the fruit to reach full maturity while retaining freshness. The winemaking style here seeks to express both the richness of Plavac Mali and the signature minerality of its rocky terroir, often resulting in robust, deeply coloured wines with pronounced dark fruit, dried fig, and Mediterranean herb notes.

The Dalmatian region of Croatia, encompassing the island of Hvar, is renowned for its dramatic limestone landscapes and a unique blend of sea influence and hot, dry summers. The soils are typically poor, rocky, and well-drained, coaxing intensity and complexity from the vines. Viticulture here is steeped in history; the Greeks established Hvar’s first vineyards over two millennia ago, and today’s winemaking blends local tradition with selective modern techniques. The challenging terrain promotes low yields, which further concentrates flavour and structure in the wines.

A wine like this, with its marked Mediterranean personality, pairs beautifully with hearty, flavourful dishes. Consider serving it alongside slow-cooked lamb with rosemary, richly spiced beef stews, or a traditional Dalmatian pašticada (beef braised in red wine and aromatic herbs). The wine’s firm structure and berries-with-spice notes also complement grilled eggplant, hard sheep’s cheese, or dishes with sun-dried tomatoes and olives.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16–18°C, ideally after allowing it to breathe for an hour. This will help the tannins soften and reveal the wine’s full aromatic spectrum, enhancing your tasting experience and showcasing the unique character of Plavac Mali from Hvar.