Wines Unspecified Apolitico - Anđeo s Greškom - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Apolitico's 2021 Cuvée Anđeo s Greškom is a dry red wine from the Slavonia region of Croatia. Though the cépage (grape varieties) and exact blend composition are unspecified, Slavonian reds commonly involve international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, expressive local grapes such as Frankovka (Blaufränkisch), or blends thereof. The 2021 vintage brings a freshness thanks to a balanced growing season, allowing for good ripeness while maintaining an appealing acidity. Depending on the cellar practices, Slavonian reds may undergo classic vinification in stainless steel or large Slavonian oak casks, favouring pure, fruit-forward expression with supple tannins.

Slavonia lies in north-eastern Croatia and benefits from a continental climate, experiencing warm summers and cold winters. The fertile alluvial plains, with loamy soils and occasional pockets of gravel, support vibrant viticulture. Historically, the region is renowned for its whites—especially Grasevina—but in the past two decades, reds have grown in prominence, offering lively freshness, moderate body, and charming spice, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the local winemakers. Slavonia’s winemaking tradition stretches back centuries, shaped by Austro-Hungarian influences and a respect for indigenous varieties.

This versatile style allows the Cuvée Anđeo s Greškom to pair beautifully with a range of dishes. Ideal culinary partners include roast pork with paprika, grilled sausages, or local Slavonian game stews such as čobanac. The wine also sits comfortably alongside mushroom risotto, roasted aubergines, or hard, nutty cheeses. For a more regionally inspired feast, try it with kulen, the spicy Slavonian sausage, whose smoky complexity will complement the wine’s likely fruit-and-spice profile.

Serve this red slightly cool—around 15-17°C—to showcase its freshness and aromatic complexity. Allow it a short aeration, 30 minutes or so, before drinking to let the flavours unfurl. This will enhance both the wine’s fruit core and structure. Enjoy while young for vibrancy, or cellar gently for a couple of years for added depth.