Key takeaways: Pošip, first protected Croatian white wine in 1967, is indigenous grape variety from Korčula island. Result of natural crossing, it draws its minerality from karst limestone soils and its apricot, fig, honey, and almond aromas. Its perfect balance makes it ideal with fish, seafood, or desserts. Discover Tomić Beleca.
You're tired of classic white wines and wish to discover Pošip grape variety, rare pearl? Pošip grape variety, originating from Korčula island, is unknown wine treasure despite its status as first Croatian white wine to obtain protected designation of origin in 1967, result of natural crossing between Zlatarica Blatska Blanc and Bratkovina Blanc. In this article, we explore its fascinating history, its unique terroir shaped by sea and karst, as well as its complex aromas of dried apricot, fig, honey, and almond, and its versatility between dry and sweet wines, revealing why this full-bodied and balanced wine deserves place on your table.
- Pošip, Dalmatia's hidden treasure between legend and reality
- Historic recognition: first protected Croatian white wine
- Dalmatian terroir: sea and karst influence
- Tasting: unique and complex aromatic profile
- How to pair Pošip wine?
- Pošip grape variety in brief
Pošip, Dalmatia's hidden treasure between legend and reality
Wild vine legend
In 19th century, on Korčula island in Dalmatia, Marin Tomašić Barbaca discovered wild vine in Stiniva canyon. Intrigued by its unique taste, he took cuttings and planted them in Punta-Sutvara.
He then shared his plants with Smokvica and Čara winemakers. This story, recorded in 1967 by Dr. Jelaska, reinforces Pošip's mysterious aura.
This grape variety is considered local wine treasure, born from fortuitous discovery that shaped its history.
Scientific truth: indigenous crossing
2002 DNA analysis by Professors Maletić and Pejić confirmed that Pošip results from natural crossing between Zlatarica Blatska and Bratkovina. Its official name is Pošip bijeli.
It represents approximately 250 hectares in Dalmatia, mainly on Smokvica, Čara, and Blato terroirs. It grows on island's typical sandy soils.
This grape variety is one of rare old world indigenous varieties to have resisted phylloxera. Its dry wines offer full-bodied body and balanced acidity.
Dried apricot, fig, and honey aromas pair perfectly with grilled fish and seafood. Be careful not to confuse it with Furmint.
Historic recognition: first protected Croatian white wine
1967 turning point: pioneer appellation
In 1967, Pošip became first Croatian white wine to obtain protected designation of origin, confirming its quality and national treasure status.
Pošip isn't just grape variety, it's pioneer. In 1967, it became first Croatian white wine to obtain protected designation of origin, thus sealing its national treasure status.
Pošip cradle: Korčula island
Originating from Korčula island in southern Dalmatia, Pošip finds its cradle there. Its sandy soils and Mediterranean climate favor its growth. Although cultivated elsewhere, Korčula remains its heart. DNA analyses confirm its link with Bratkovina and Blatska Zlatarica.
- Korčula island, its cradle.
- Pelješac peninsula.
- Lastovo and Mljet islands.
These regions share warm climate and sandy soils conducive to Pošip.
Pošip distinguishes itself through full-bodied, dry, and sweet profile, with dried apricots, figs, and almond aromas. It pairs perfectly with seafood or fresh cheeses.
Also discover Dalmatia's other emblematic grape variety, Plavac Mali.
Dalmatian terroir: sea and karst influence
Limestone soils for freshness and minerality
Pošip flourishes on limestone soils typical of Dalmatian karst. These rocks drain water well. They preserve necessary summer freshness. Their mineral composition enriches wine. This provides persistent acidity and silky texture. Pošip wines are thus very balanced.
This minerality is key characteristic, often cited by enthusiasts. Limestone soils directly influence aromas. They bring Mediterranean herb notes. Korčula vineyards have varied soils: red, sandy, and rocky. Each soil type influences aromas.
Each plot brings its own complexity to wine. Dalmatian terroir is unique. Vines grow on natural terraces. They benefit from optimal sun exposure. This contributes to Pošip's perfect balance.
Fragile balance between intense sun and sea breezes
Mediterranean climate brings warmth and sun. But Pošip fears excessive exposure. Winemakers protect clusters with foliage work. They orient rows to limit sun impact. This preserves delicate aromas. This attention to detail is essential.
Adriatic Sea offers refreshing breezes. They moderate summer temperature. This allows slow and balanced ripening. Acidity remains lively. Alcohol balances perfectly. This balance is Pošip signature. Wines maintain their freshness even aging.
Vineyards spread along coast. Adriatic proximity creates ideal microclimate. Sea breezes refresh vines. This avoids overripeness and preserves freshness. It's key factor for Pošip quality. Winemakers take advantage of this marine proximity to produce exceptional wines.
Tasting: unique and complex aromatic profile
Robe and mouth structure
Pošip presents golden yellow robe with greenish reflections in youth, evolving toward deep gold. Its body is full-bodied (13.5-14.5% alcohol) with marked acidity (5.8 g/L). Its smooth texture and mineral finish make it exceptional wine. Its 5 to 10 years aging potential allows it to develop hazelnut and honey aromas. One of great Dalmatian white wines for its roundness and complexity.
Mediterranean aroma bouquet
With its captivating aromas of dried apricot, ripe fig, and citrus, Pošip offers complex taste experience, true expression of its sunny Mediterranean terroir.
- Fruity aromas: dried apricot, fig, ripe peach, fresh pear, apple, and citrus.
- Floral and vegetal notes: hawthorn.
- Tertiary aromas: honey, almond, fresh hazelnuts, toasted bread, vanilla.
Korčula terroir, with its mineral-rich limestone soils and marine sands, combined with refreshing Maestral wind, preserves natural acidity. Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, favors slow and complete ripening. In stainless steel tank, it reveals lime and white peach notes; in oak barrel, it develops vanilla, toasted bread, and roasted almond. Mainly cultivated in Smokvica and Čara, in Smokvisko-Carsko Polje heart, this grape variety offers unique and appreciated aromatic diversity.
Pošip duality: from dry to sweet wines
Pošip is mainly vinified as dry white wine, but passito method allows producing exceptional sweet wines. Grapes are spread on wicker mats under Dalmatian sun for 3 to 4 weeks to concentrate sugars and aromas. This ancestral process, used for centuries, produces wines of richness comparable to Hungarian Tokaj. Dry wines pair perfectly with grilled squid, scallops, or fresh cheeses like feta. Sweet wines pair deliciously with fig desserts, crème brûlée, or Asian spicy dishes. This versatility makes it one of best Croatian white wines, sought by enthusiasts worldwide.
How to pair Pošip wine?
Perfect pairings for dry Pošip
Dry Pošip, from Korčula island in Dalmatia, is cultivated on region's typical sandy soils. It presents fresh structure with citrus, ripe peach, and hazelnut aromas. Its wines are alcohol-rich but balanced by marked acidity, offering good aging potential. It pairs perfectly with fine grilled fish, scallops, and seafood risottos. Its marked acidity balances shellfish delicate flavors. It also complements lightly aged cheeses like brie or fresh goat cheese. This ideal combination for Mediterranean meals reveals wine's full complexity. Excellent option for summer dinners.
Daring sweet Pošip in cuisine
Sweet Pošip, with its honey, dried fig, and candied apricot notes, elevates blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola. Contrast between cheese salinity and wine sweetness creates captivating harmony. It also pairs with apricot tart, where its fruity aromas reinforce dessert flavor. Bold alternative for Asian spicy dishes, where sugar balances heat. Its intense sweetness perfectly balances Asian dishes spices, creating unique taste experience. This surprising combination reveals sweet Pošip versatility, ideal for taste discovery enthusiasts.
Pošip grape variety in brief
Originating from Korčula island, Pošip is indigenous white grape variety. Result of crossing between Zlatarica Blatska Blanc and Bratkovina Blanc, its name ("šip") evokes pointed berries. Cultivated in Dalmatia, it's its symbol.
On 250 hectares, it grows on sandy soils. Disease-resistant except downy mildew, it fears winds and drought. Winged clusters and pointed berries.
Pošip fact sheet
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Official name | Pošip bijeli |
| Origin | Croatia (Korčula island) |
| Parents | Zlatarica Blatska Blanc x Bratkovina Blanc |
| Wine type | Full-bodied dry white wine, sweet dessert wine |
| Main aromas | Dried apricot, fig, citrus, honey, almond |
| Typical pairings | Grilled fish, seafood, cheeses |
Dried apricot and fig fragrances. Perfect pairings with grilled fish and cheeses. Discover Tomić Beleca, Dalmatia emblem.
Pošip, Croatian wine treasure born on Korčula island, combines legend and science. Result of natural crossing, it offers apricot, honey, and citrus aromas, in balanced structure. Dry or sweet, it elevates Mediterranean cuisine. Discover it now with Tomić Beleca 2022 cuvée, showcase of its excellence.
FAQ
What is Pošip grape variety?
Pošip is indigenous Croatian white grape variety, mainly cultivated on Korčula island in Dalmatia. Result of natural crossing between Zlatarica Blatska Blanc and Bratkovina Blanc, it's recognized for its aromatic richness and balance between alcohol and acidity. This wine treasure, sometimes called Pošip bijeli, testifies to Croatian viticulture ancient history.
What wine type does Pošip grape variety produce?
Pošip mainly produces dry white wines, of beautiful golden color with greenish reflections in youth. But it can also be used for sweet wines, notably via passito method where grapes are dried to concentrate their sugars. These wines are characterized by full-bodied structure, marked acidity, and complex aromas of dried apricot, fig, and honey.
What exactly is Croatian white wine Pošip?
Pošip is Croatian vineyards emblematic grape variety, notably on Korčula island. It's first Croatian white wine to have obtained protected designation of origin in 1967. Its wines, often made dry, distinguish themselves through their minerality and balance between freshness and richness, reflecting Dalmatia's Mediterranean terroir.
