Wines Unspecified Vinarija Smiljkovic 90 - 2021 - 2021

Vinarija Smiljkovic 90 Cuvée 2021 is a dry red wine from the Šumadija-Grande Morava region in central Serbia. Although the precise blend of grape varieties is not specified, the region is renowned for both international and local varietals, often including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and native grapes like Prokupac or Vranac in their cuvées. The 2021 vintage benefited from a warm, relatively dry growing season, which allowed optimal ripening and concentration of flavours, while preserving a fresh acidity typical of the region’s continental climate. The winemaking approach here tends to focus on extracting vibrant fruit character, while moderate oak ageing (if present) brings added complexity without overpowering the wine’s natural freshness and structure.

Šumadija, often referred to as the “heart of Serbia,” is an historic wine-producing area, celebrated for its undulating hills and fertile valleys surrounding the Morava river. The soil composition varies, but is characterised by a mix of clay, loam and limestone, all of which contribute to depth of flavour and minerality in the wines. The region experiences marked seasonal contrasts, with hot summers and cold winters, fostering grapes with lovely balance between ripeness, structure and freshness. Wine production here dates back to Roman times, and recent decades have seen a renaissance in quality and diversity, with both modern and traditional winemaking methods in use.

With its youthful character and likely fruit-forward profile, this Cuvée 2021 is versatile at the table. It would pair beautifully with grilled meats such as lamb or pork, as well as charcuterie boards featuring Serbian cured meats and cheeses like kajmak or pršuta. A classic regional dish like sarma (stuffed cabbage leaves) or roasted veal with potatoes would also highlight the wine’s savoury notes and firm structure, while vegetable-based dishes such as baked peppers or moussaka would work well if you prefer a lighter pairing.

For optimal tasting, serve this red at 16-18°C after allowing it to breathe for half an hour. This will enable the wine’s fruit and spice aromas to open up, enhancing your enjoyment and revealing the craftsmanship behind this distinctly Serbian cuvée.