2021 Vilinka Cellars - Blatina Mostar (750ml)

Vilinka Cellars is a small, family owned winery in Bosnia and Herzegovina, established in 2008 in the Mostar wine region of the country's south. The vineyard was planted two years earlier on the hill of Sretnice near Čitluk, at roughly 400 meters elevation, and the cellar today is run by Velimir Eres, one of the youngest winemakers in the country, who won nine medals at international fairs in Zagreb, Split, Mostar, and Sarajevo within his first four years. The estate keeps production modest and focuses on the indigenous grapes of Herzegovina, chiefly Žilavka and Blatina.

This wine is made from Blatina, a native red variety that thrives in the rocky, sun-drenched terrain of the Mostar region. The estate favors traditional winemaking methods that preserve the grape's authentic character, with careful attention paid to fermentation and aging to build depth of flavor while keeping the wine true to its Herzegovinian roots.

The wine shows a deep ruby color, with a complex bouquet of dark cherry and blackberry layered with subtle spice. On the palate the flavors unfold gradually, offering a rich, layered drinking experience with a long finish. It pairs naturally with hearty grilled meats, though it is equally satisfying alongside cheese and charcuterie or simply on its own.