Wines Dingac Skaramuca - Dingač - 2018

Skaramuca’s 2018 Dingac is a red wine from Croatia’s renowned Pelješac Peninsula, produced within the protected Dingac appellation. This area is famed for producing characterful, robust reds, often from the indigenous Plavac Mali grape, though “Cuvée Dingač” suggests this wine could either be a classic varietal or a blend crafted to highlight regional traits. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm, dry Mediterranean climate, contributing to intensely flavoured and ripe wines. Expect a deeply coloured, full-bodied red with notes likely ranging from ripe blackberries and dried figs to hints of Mediterranean herbs, spice, and a touch of the region’s signature minerality. The rugged coastal terroir, with its sun-drenched, steep slopes and limestone-rich soils, shapes a distinctive profile—wines from here regularly deliver richness, structure, and complexity.

The Dingac region, nestled along the southern slopes of the Pelješac Peninsula, is one of Croatia’s most celebrated viticultural zones and the country’s first protected wine area. The combination of relentless sunshine, cooling sea breezes from the Adriatic, and poor, stony soils encourages deep-rooted vines and naturally limited yields, resulting in wines with concentration and authenticity. Historically, Dingac has been a benchmark for Croatian winemaking, with local families, including Skaramuca, carrying on traditions that date back centuries.

Pairing this type of wine is a delight, especially with dishes featuring bold flavours. Local Dalmatian cuisine is an excellent companion, such as slow-cooked lamb, richly spiced peka (meat and vegetables baked under a bell), grilled Adriatic tuna, or hearty stews with wild herbs. Hard cheeses, olives, and chargrilled aubergine also complement the wine’s depth and structure.

For optimal appreciation, serve this red at 16-18°C, allowing the wine’s bouquet and textural qualities to fully express themselves. Decanting for an hour is recommended to open up the layers and soften any youthful tannins. This bottle promises a genuine sense of place and character from Croatia’s dramatic coastline.