Wines Unspecified Clai - Ottocenoto bijeli - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Clai’s Cuvée Ottocento Bijeli 2015 is a distinctive white blend hailing from the rolling hills of Istria, Croatia, a region increasingly celebrated for its artisanal winemaking. The precise varietal composition is proprietary, but typical Istrian blends often feature native grapes such as Malvasia Istriana, sometimes Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, delivering both local character and international elegance. The 2015 vintage benefitted from a warm, sun-rich season, promising depth and maturity in the glass. Winemaking at Clai is resolutely natural; the grapes are farmed organically and harvested by hand, and the cuvée undergoes spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Extended skin contact is a hallmark, lending the wine its structure, subtle tannins, and a golden, lightly ambered hue—a style sometimes known as “orange” wine.

Istria, projecting into the Adriatic Sea, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with cooling breezes, abundant sunshine, and well-drained limestone and clay soils. These factors foster a long ripening season, endowing wines with both ripeness and vibrant acidity. The region boasts a winemaking tradition stretching back to Roman times, but in recent decades a revival of ancient techniques—such as amphora aging and skin-fermentation for whites—has contributed to its growing international renown.

This Cuvée Ottocento Bijeli is expressive on the nose, often showing stone fruit, dried citrus, chamomile, wild herbs, and a subtle oxidative note. Its texture is generous and layered, with a savoury nuance and a mouth-watering, saline finish. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean fare: grilled sea bass with fennel, shellfish stew, or octopus salad. The wine’s structure and gentle tannins also make it an inspired match for roast free-range chicken with lemon and aromatic herbs, or local Istrian specialities such as fuži pasta with truffles.

For optimal appreciation, serve at 12–14°C. Decanting 30 minutes prior to serving will further reveal its complexity and allow the nuances of this remarkable Croatian white to fully blossom.