2021 Zlatan Otok - Plavac Hvar (750ml)

Zlatan Otok was founded in 1991 by Zlatan Plenković in the fishing village of Sveta Nedjelja on the island of Hvar, becoming the second private winery in Croatia after the country's independence. Today it stands among the largest private wineries in the country, with vineyards on Hvar's dramatic southern slopes as well as holdings on the mainland near Makarska and Šibenik. Plenković is widely regarded as Croatia's most decorated winemaker, and the estate's wines have collected well over a hundred awards.

This wine is made entirely from Plavac Mali, grown on steep, sun drenched slopes reaching a 35 to 45 percent incline above the sea, on rocky red clay soil over a limestone base. The vines are farmed organically without irrigation, harvested entirely by hand, and undergo eight to fourteen days of skin maceration before fermentation with native yeasts. The wine is then aged for twelve months in large used Slavonian and fresh oak barrels, a traditional Dalmatian approach that builds structure without overwhelming the fruit.

The wine pours a dark ruby color, with rich, layered aromas of Dalmatian herbs, baking spice, and dark fruits like blueberry and plum. On the palate it is full bodied and complex, with well defined tannins, balanced freshness, and a long, persistent finish. It pairs naturally with red meats and grilled dishes.