Plesivica
The history of this extremely charming region is similar to historical events of Northern and North-Western wine-growing regions of Croatia. The Church, nobility as well as the wealthy towns of Samobor and Jastrebarsko, have contributed to the cultivation of grapes, from the Middle Ages until the present day. Many vineyards, situated on predominantly small plots, have maintained old traditions of supporting grapes with wooden stakes. Plesivica region is famous for the growing of a diverse varieties, ranging from traditional indigenous varieties to several varieties of American origin, such as Noah, Isabelle and Delaware. Vineyards/Winemakers focused on varietal wines are dominated by renowned international varietals such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Sylvaner, Grasevina, Rizvanac and Portugieser. Traditional local varietals, such as Sipelj, Plavac zuti, Kraljevina, Belina and Moslavac are only to be found in vineyards with diversified varieties.The Plesevica region is famous for its significant number of quality winemakers, able to compete with the most renowned brands.
Typically continental climatic conditions, with cold winters and abundant precipitation, are mostly suitable for the more aromatic varietals, such as Sauvignon and Muskat, which regularly achieve outstanding results. However, Riesling, with its significantly distinct characteristics, shows finest results in this region, especially when grown in the most suitable areas. The most appropriate agriculture areas of the region are mostly situated very high above sea level and are distinguished by a “healthy” air circulation. Vineyards are usually situated on very steep slopes, providing an ideal blend of grapes and solar rays. This is a perfect natural environment for Riesling, a variety which requires both a cold climate and direct contact with sun. In this region, Riesling is represented in three very distinctive, but equally attractive styles. The first, a part of the regular vintage, is humbler in character, with a fruity flavor, reminding of peaches and apples. Its aroma also shows mild hints of wild flowers. It produces light to medium brisk wines of a refreshing flavor. The second style is more complex. Grapes are harvested only after reaching high sugar levels, with flavors gaining in complexity. The fruity aroma is more mature, reminding of deliciously stewed peaches and apricots. Floral shades, with the prevailing aroma of locust, have become sweeter. Due to high levels of alcohol and substantial extracts, flavors are full-bodied, thus producing a strong, rich and delicious wine. As the product of a late or elective harvest, the third style of Riesling is dessert wine, with an intense scent of locust honey and apricot jam and a full-bodied, long-lasting aftertaste. A single varietyl, producing three completely different, but equally top-quality styles in such a small region, deserves the title of champion of the Plesivica region. Portugieser, another leading varietal of the region, is perhaps not of the same top quality as Riesling, but the local winemakers did not intend to cultivate another varietal with similar characteristics. Portugieser is a young, frisky wine with very short life-span and is therefore best used before the end of winter. This gentle, raspberry flavored red wine with a mildly sour aroma is bottled each November under the same brand. Each and every winemaker sells his supplies, one month after they have been placed on the market. All regional winemakers decided to brand this varietal together and they have produced a very successful, frisky and sociable wine which makes Portugieser one of the leading varietals of the Plesivica region.
