Wines Unspecified Eclat - Plavac Mali - 2013

Eclat 2013 is a red wine hailing from the sun-kissed Dalmatian coast of Croatia, crafted as a cuvée believed to be based primarily on Plavac Mali, a celebrated indigenous variety. Plavac Mali is renowned for producing robust, deeply coloured reds that exhibit bold fruit flavours—typically dark cherry, plum, and sometimes hints of Mediterranean herbs and spices. The 2013 vintage would suggest a certain maturity, allowing the tannins to mellow and secondary characteristics to evolve, potentially offering subtle notes of dried fruit, tobacco, and earthy undertones. The vinification for wines of this style in Dalmatia often involves a careful balance between traditional techniques and modern precision, aiming to preserve the grape’s rich varietal character while achieving a harmonious structure.

Dalmatia, stretching along Croatia’s dramatic Adriatic coastline, is a region rooted in millennia of viticultural history. The area benefits from a temperate Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild winters, which is highly favourable for ripening Plavac Mali. The vineyards are often found on steep, sun-drenched slopes with rocky, well-drained soils—limestone and dolomite commonly imparting a distinctive mineral backbone to the wines. This natural environment enables concentrated flavours, with both maritime breezes and elevated sites helping maintain freshness and aromatic complexity. Dalmatia’s winemaking culture interweaves ancient tradition with new energy, making its wines exciting discoveries for enthusiasts seeking authenticity.

This style of Dalmatian red pairs beautifully with local cuisine. Consider enjoying it alongside slow-cooked lamb, rich beef stews, or traditional Croatian dishes such as pašticada—beef braised in red wine and Mediterranean herbs. Aged cheeses and roasted root vegetables also make excellent companions, allowing the wine’s developed character and balanced structure to shine.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a slightly cool room temperature, ideally around 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting can help reveal its full aromatic spectrum and soften any remaining tannins, allowing both the wine’s heritage and the unique Dalmatian terroir to express themselves in your glass.