Gaj Traminer, 2009

Plesivica-Okic wine growing region does not have a significant presence in the media, so it is very well known to a wider audience, but it hides a series of interesting and good wine cellars. On the other hand, it is a region that has been coming alive in the past years (with a noticeable increase of investment in technology and know-how) and whose full potential is yet to be realized in the time to come.

One of the main qualities and advantages of this region is the series of micro-locations, slopes looking towards south and southeast, and famous amphitheater locations. Gaj location is among the finest locations of this area, with specific conditions including the microclimate, rich quality soil and excellent exposure.

Mladina winery tries to use exactly these advantages and potentials of this vine growing region. After the very good semi-dry Sauvignon from the Gaj brand, Mladina has recently marketed the semi-sweet Traminer, in a relatively small edition of 4,120 top quality bottles.

The wine has a rich golden yellow to amber hue, with rich consistency (a consequence of high alcohols and unfermented sugar). Even before you swirl the glass, the wine emits rich and strong floral aromas with a dominant aromatic elder tree and the unmistakable aroma of locust honey. In the background, you can notice hints of ripe fruits, primarily pears, as well as tropical fruits and then some floral aromas again, all rounded up with a citrus freshness.

On the palate, the wine is perfectly soft and balanced, with a pleasant oily and syrupy texture. The high percentage of alcohol is excellently harmonized with the sugar remainder. The aftertaste is lingering, with honey and mildly bitter quality. Also prominent are the menthol flavors, so it seems that the aftertaste is “cold”, which is a good counterweight to the warmth on the middle palate. Thanks to the somewhat lower acids, characteristic for this variety (the acidity directly depend on the time of harvest), the wine will pair well with younger desserts.

This is a true treat, primarily for the ladies, but it is equally loved by men, who traditionally love dry wines.

Best paired with: alone or as a side dish to cakes

Serving temperature: 10 to 12°C

Price: around HRK 70

Source: Gastro.hr