Wines Kutjevo Galic - Chardonnay - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The 2019 Galić Chardonnay from Kutjevo is a white wine that beautifully showcases the potential of Slavonia in Croatia for cultivating noble grape varieties. This cuvée, made exclusively from Chardonnay, presents a golden straw hue and boasts inviting aromas of ripe pear, apple, and subtle notes of citrus, harmoniously intertwined with delicate hints of vanilla and toasted almond from well-judged oak ageing. The palate is marked by a vibrant freshness, balanced by a pleasantly round texture and a lingering finish. The winemaking at Galić respects the varietal's character, opting for meticulous pressing and temperature control to preserve fruit purity, sometimes complemented by partial malolactic fermentation and careful oak integration for complexity and structure.

Situated in eastern Croatia, the Slavonia region and specifically the Kutjevo area are historically renowned for their viticulture, with a tradition that dates back to ancient times and monastic influences. The region benefits from a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, which allows grapes to ripen fully while maintaining their natural acidity—an essential quality for expressive white wines. The soils in Kutjevo are predominantly loamy with traces of limestone, providing both drainage and mineral nuance to the wines. Slavonia’s under-explored terroir often surprises with its finesse and capacity for producing age-worthy whites, particularly from international varieties like Chardonnay.

For food pairings, this expressive Chardonnay is quite versatile. It shines alongside richer seafood dishes—think grilled sea bass or prawn risotto—while its creamy texture also complements poultry in white wine sauce, roasted chicken with herbs, or pasta with mushroom cream. You might also enjoy it with regional Croatian cuisine such as štrukli (cheese-filled pastry) or a simple plate of Pag cheese and lightly smoked cured meats.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. This temperature will allow the wine’s aromatic complexity to fully reveal itself without muting the delicate oak and fruit notes. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing the wine a few minutes in the glass before tasting can further enhance its expression.