Wines Unspecified Belje - Goldberg Graševina - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The 2021 Cuvée Goldberg Graševina from Belje is an excellent example of the elegance and freshness that Croatian white wines can offer. Crafted from the Graševina grape, which is known elsewhere as Welschriesling, this wine is vinified in a classic dry style, allowing the varietal's natural aromatic intensity and acidity to shine through. The vintage 2021 provided the region with favourable climatic conditions, resulting in grapes with a lively balance between ripeness and crispness, enhancing the expression of orchard fruits and subtle floral notes typical of Graševina.

Located in Slavonia, an often-overlooked gem among Croatia's wine regions, Belje benefits from a unique terroir. The continental climate features marked seasonal contrasts, with warm summers and cold winters, fostering slow and balanced grape maturation. The soils here are predominantly loamy and rich in minerals, contributing both structure and finesse to the wines. Slavonia boasts a winemaking tradition that stretches back to Roman times, and today it is especially renowned for its fresh, aromatic white wines. The region’s history and longstanding expertise in grape cultivation provide a strong foundation for consistently high-quality wines such as this one.

Pairing possibilities for the Cuvée Goldberg Graševina are wide-ranging due to its vibrant acidity and subtle complexity. It is an ideal partner for freshwater fish such as trout or perch, a staple in Croatian cuisine. Classic pairings also include baked white fish with herbs, risottos featuring asparagus or wild mushrooms, and gentle cheeses like young goat cheese. For a truly authentic experience, try it alongside “fiš paprikaš,” a regional fish stew spiced with paprika, where the wine’s freshness can counterbalance the dish’s richness and heat.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled yet not too cold, ideally between 8-10°C. This will allow the delicate floral and orchard fruit nuances to emerge fully, alongside the refreshing acidity that defines the style. Decanting is not necessary; simply open and savour the youthful vitality and minerality that epitomise Slavonia’s finest Graševina wines.