Saints Hills 2024 'Coastal Croatia' Mala Nevina

The Wine

This is a dry white wine made by blending two white grapes common in Croatia today, their unique strain of Malvasia Istriana and Chardonnay. Together, they create an aromatic gem with a broader flavor profile than many of Croatia's white wines, which is already a pretty high bar!

Aromas are dominated by fruits (pear, yellow apples and stone fruits) made more interesting with notes of fruit tree blossoms, wild herbs and an almond bitterness. The finish features a subtle saline note from the seaside vineyards - typical of the white wines of Croatia.

On the palate, the wine really comes to life, with notes of stone fruit, citrus zest, and fresh ripe fig, all supporting an herby complexity (Marjoram? Thyme?). 

Pairings: Fish grilled and brushed with herbs soaked in olive oil. For cheeses, reach for the soft-ripened variety such as Mt Tam (CA), Brillat Savarin (France) or Leonara (Spain).

The Winery

During the Soviet occupation of Croatia, winemaking was reduced to the lowest common denominator - quality was sacrificed for quantity, and much of it was distilled to create Vodka. It was definitely a sad nadir for Croatian winemakers. 

In the decades since 'the fall of the wall' and the unraveling of the USSR, Croatia's winegrowers (along with those in Slovenia, Armenia and Georgia) have re-learned the finer points of growing, vinifying and enjoying wines. Today they deserve their hard-fought position on the global wine stage.