Some topics are not for the Thanksgiving table. So, let’s talk turkey and what Croatian wines to pair with this American tradition.
Due to the meal’s complexity, from appetizers to both white and dark poultry, to savory side dishes and finally to various desserts, it is not so easy to pair a single wine with the meal. These suggestions – from sparkling to white, rosé, orange and lighter reds – are based not only on great pairings, but also about great conversation starters.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your friends and family and let’s remember to be thankful for all the talented Croatian winemakers that enable us to have indigenous Croatian wines on this side of the pond – currently counting 101+ wine labels in our online store shipping to most US states.
Rosé or Sparkling
Kutjevo Rosé – receives Gold or Silver awards every year -- is smooth, yet substantive (pair with appetizers) and will also delight you with its label that has a “kravata”, a neck scarf or tie that originated in Croatia and was adopted by Napolean for his troops (the French name for Croatia is Kroata). What a great opening topic!
Enosophia Today’s Rose - this sparkling rose from Frankovka (Blaufrankish) will add effervescence to your starting conversations at the gathering.
Festive Whites
Zure Grk – the highly regarded Grk from the island of Korčula will pair well with many appetizers – from shrimp cocktail to cheeses. And, the label design from the famous artist is sure to engender table conversation.
Antunović Chardonnay sur Lie Grand Selection – this is truly a festive international white with notes of Danube sunshine, which received great ratings both in Europe and the US. Another topic for the table.
Lighter Reds
Matuško Plavac Mali – this light Plavac Mali has not seen any oak, has a low ABV and some surprising vanilla notes due to the time in the bottle. A great option for chilled red to sip before the meal or to pair with the dark poultry meat. It also pairs great with vanilla based desserts – think apple pie!
Delmati Biokovo Plavka -- this lesser known variety, related to Plavac Mali (it has equally dark berries, thus the root “plavo” (blue) in its name) is typically grown in the Dalmatian hinterland where it is also known as Plavina. This is a less tannic variety, and this one from the Delmati Winery is also aged in cement tanks instead of oak, so the smooth taste pairs equally well with dark poultry or tuna crudo, when it is time for leftovers.
Testament Dalmatian Dog Babić & Plavac Mali -- an unusual blend of Babić and Plavac Mali is a great combination of both varieties. You get a bit of the sour cherry notes for which Babić is known for, complemented with the herbal and tannic structure of Plavac Mali. This has not been in oak. A very creative wine and certainly a conversation starter when you add the dog label. (Yes, Dalmatian dogs originated in Dalmatia!)
Orange/Amber Wines
Orange, amber or skin-contact wines are oxidated and have more tannins from the skins. They pairs great with any food, whether you chill them or not. Here are a few:
Testament Zenith Pošip – a skin contact macerated Pošip, it will go great with charcuterie and also with white meat turkey and gravy. This is a very light version of amber wine with amplified notes of classic Pošip.
Crvik Blasius – named after Dubrovnik’s patron saint, St. Blasius, this wine is made from Dubrovačka Malvasija (different than the Malvazija Istriana variety) and grown in Konavle, the famous appellation in the Dubrovnik area.
Krauthaker Kuvlahke – this impressive orange wine made from Graševina carries the heart and golden hues of Slavonia in it. Its name is a whimsical combination of a few elements KU(tjevo) where the winery is based, VLA(do) for the original winemaker, and a Georgia-language inspired ending to tribute the country that reignited the orange wine technology.
And for a special dessert...
Testament Prošek -- the traditional dessert wine of Dalmatia for special occasions, this one is made from the red variety Babić – smelling like dark berries, dark chocolate and ripe cherries. The taste is complex, with delicate tannins and integrated freshness!
Živjeli!
