Wines Unspecified Ilocki Podrumi - Traminac Izborna Berba - 2017

Iločki Podrumi’s 2017 Cuvée Traminac Izborna Berba is a luscious sweet white wine, crafted in the historic region of Slavonia, eastern Croatia. The mention of “Traminac” suggests Gewürztraminer, a variety renowned for powerful aromas, exotic spices and pronounced floral character. “Izborna Berba” denotes a selection of late-harvest grapes—typically a sign of concentrated sugars, sometimes even botrytised berries, lending the wine opulence and aromatic complexity. Bottled in a half-size format, this wine is likely rich, unctuous, and dominated by aromas of rose petal, lychee, honey and ripe stone fruits, all supported by a vibrant freshness that balances its sweetness.

Slavonia is one of Croatia’s oldest wine regions, bordered by the Drava and Sava rivers. The terrain here is a patchwork of gently rolling hills, with fertile loamy soils and a continental climate characterised by hot summers and cold winters. These conditions are particularly good for growing white grape varieties, with misty autumns that often encourage the development of noble rot in select vineyards—a key to complex dessert wines like this one. The winemaking tradition in Slavonia stretches back centuries, influenced heavily by Austro-Hungarian as well as local Balkan heritage, and places like Ilok are renowned for their prowess with aromatic whites, both dry and sweet.

A wine of this character pairs beautifully with rich pâtés such as foie gras, blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola, and desserts highlighting orchard fruit—think apple tarte tatin, strudel, or Croatian specialties like orahnjača (walnut roll). For a truly regional experience, try with slavonski kulen (spicy paprika sausage) or the creamy local cakes. Its honeyed sweetness also finds harmony with tropical fruit tarts or a plate of fresh figs and almonds.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well chilled at 8-10°C in medium-sized white wine glasses. Allow it a moment to open in the glass: you’ll be rewarded with evolving aromas and layers of flavour, making it a delightful companion for both special occasions and contemplative sipping.