Grasevina, the pride of continental croatia

white grape variety from KUTJEVO, slavonia

The Kutjevo wine region is nestled in the rims of Pozega valley on the slopes of mountains Krdnija and Papuk, bordering the narrow valley of the river Kutjevcanka. The area capitalises on 800ha of high yield vineyards of Slavonia county. This region is predominately known for its white wines; White Pinot, Pinot Gris, Traminer, Riesling, including a unique wine 'Grasevina'. Grasevina, also known as Welschriesling, is the most planted grape variety and highly consumed from this region. Interestingly it doesn't have any link to German Riesling but like Riesling it thrives on cooler soil and continental climate.  

On my last adventure to the region, I had the honour to visit this special place and admire its rich history and wide range of delicious wines. This region is truly special for its traditions, beautiful nature, delicious food and obviously distinctive wines. There is certainly a lot more to Croatia than its gorgeous blue coastline. 

A little bit of historic background of the wine region that produces the highest yield of wine in Croatia... As the story goes many centuries ago Illyrians arrived to Kutjevo recognising this region as ideal for wine growing, and embraced agricultural enterprises. By the beginning of the 13th century, Cistercian monks migrated to the region and opened the Kutjevo cellar, which now represents the oldest cellar in Croatia. Definitely worth a visit! Some exquisite archival wine can still be found here - only look but can't drink. 

On the Kutjevo wine estate, there is a beautiful castle of Kutjevo that symbolises this region in its genuine nobility. For almost 800 years this estate has a rich story to tell of wine making, visits of prominent historic figures and charming antidotes. One to note is Empress Maria Theresa who lived there and enjoyed local wine. 

Wine of recommendation
Grasevina Quality Wine is certainly one to highlight if you like Chanin Blanc and young Riesling. This wine portrays fresh aromas of sweet apples and pears, flowery notes of elderflower and certain minerality. This wine can also age well but I absolutely loved tasting the young year due to its simplicity. 

Pairing
This wine goes well with food, especially summer food - clams or oysters, pastas, white fish, poultry, smoked dry meat, salads among other. It unquestionably goes well with various dry cheeses. 

Tips
One of the best times of the year to visit this region is at the start of the harvest season. Kutjevo town hosts traditional wine festival, known as Kutjevačko Vincelovo, offering wide range of traditional cuisine such as cooked Slavonian sausage and ham, accompanied by the local famous wine, while you have a pleasure to get entertained by tambourines and visiting a'cappella groups. 

There are many wine estates to explore in the region so highly recommend visiting them. One to note is Krauthaker as their wines will surely leave you in awe! ​