Wines Kutjevo Mihalj - Mačevo Brdo Graševina - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Mihalj’s Mačevo Brdo Graševina 2021 from Kutjevo in Slavonia is an exemplary white wine that demonstrates the best features of the Graševina grape, known elsewhere in Central Europe as Welschriesling. In its 2021 vintage, you will find a crystalline, pale yellow colour in the glass, with aromas that typically evoke green apple, subtle citrus, pear and meadow flowers, underscored by a refreshing minerality. The palate is lively and crisp, offering good acidity, delicacy, and a lightly textured mouthfeel, before finishing with a saline lift that beckons the next sip. The vinification is geared towards preserving the grape’s freshness: Graševina is most frequently fermented in stainless steel, with the focus on primary fruit and terroir expression.

The Kutjevo area in Slavonia is a historic wine-producing region, celebrated for its unique interplay of climate and soils. Slavonia lies in continental Croatia, with a relatively cool, temperate climate. Warm summers and cold winters, coupled with significant diurnal temperature variation, enable the grapes to retain vital acidity and aromatic precision. The soils near Kutjevo are primarily loess with traces of limestone and clay, contributing finesse, energy, and a distinct minerality to the wines. Local winemaking has deep roots: monastic communities first influenced the area’s viticulture in the Middle Ages, and today, Kutjevo Graševina enjoys significant repute as the flagship white of the region.

This stylish white harmonises beautifully with a range of foods. Its crisp, subtly floral profile makes it superb with freshwater fish such as trout or perch, grilled gently and garnished with herbs. It’s equally satisfying with shellfish or prawn risotto, or with light poultry dishes. For a more regional pairing, try it with Slavonian specialties like ‘fiš paprikaš’—a mildly spicy fish stew—or savoury strudels filled with cheese and herbs.

For the best expression of its fresh aromas and lively acidity, serve this Graševina well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C. Consider using tulip-shaped white wine glasses, and enjoy soon after opening to appreciate its vibrant, youthful character.