Wines Unspecified Antunovic - Chardonnay Sur Lie Grand Selection - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Antunovic’s Chardonnay Sur Lie Grand Selection 2017 is an excellent Croatian white wine that beautifully captures the character of the Slavonia region. Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay, it benefits from the “Sur Lie” vinification method: after fermentation, the wine is left to mature on its fine lees, imparting depth, complexity, and a creamy texture. The 2017 vintage presents an elegant golden hue and reveals aromas of ripe orchard fruits, acacia blossom, and subtle notes of hazelnut and brioche, evoking Burgundian finesse. On the palate, you can expect a harmonious balance between richness and freshness, framed by a persistent minerality and a refined, elongated finish, thanks to careful selection and extended lees ageing.

Slavonia, located in eastern Croatia, is one of the country’s premier wine regions, renowned for its rolling hills and fertile plains. The continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, allows for a slow, progressive ripening of grapes, retaining natural acidity. The soils here, predominantly loamy to sandy-clay, contribute to the structure and minerality found in Slavonian whites, while the historical influence of Central Europe has ensured a tradition of meticulous viticulture. Slavonia is best known for producing robust Graševina, but Chardonnay expresses itself here with remarkable poise, bridging tradition and modern winemaking techniques.

This Chardonnay Sur Lie pairs beautifully with a broad range of dishes. Its generous texture and refined acidity make it a superb match for grilled sea bass with a herb butter, creamy risotto with truffles, or classic poultry dishes such as roast chicken with root vegetables. For a regional touch, try it with Slavonian kulen (spicy sausage) alongside a mushroom and cheese tart – the wine’s freshness will cut through the richness of the dish, enhancing both savoury and spicy notes.

Serve slightly chilled, ideally at 10-12°C, to allow the nuanced aromatics and texture to fully express themselves. Decanting for a few minutes before serving can also help reveal its layered complexity. This wine will reward those who savour it calmly, in good company and with thoughtful food pairings.