Perfect for a light meal, this fine, well-balanced white Graševina 2021 is the ideal companion for terrace evenings.

Croatia is best known for its Adriatic coastline and sun-soaked islands. But the inland is also well worth a visit. Particularly Eastern Slavonia, a region nestled between Serbia and Hungary, which has been producing wine for at least 2000 years. The Romans, who were stationed there to limit barbarian incursions, nicknamed it Vallis Aurea (the Valley of Gold) as its vineyards and wines had so much marked their discerning taste buds. Today, Slavonia, which accounts for 40% of Croatian wine production, boasts a number of famous vineyards, but some newcomers are also bringing in a healthy dose of new blood.

Such is the case of Galić, a 60-hectare vineyard in the Požega valley, named after its founder Joseph Galić. A veteran businessman, Joseph Galić has built up an impressive winery in just a few years - his first vintage only dates back to 2008 - producing 300,000 bottles a year. While his team does not shy from using international grape varietals, including an award-winning Chardonnay, they also make the most of indigenous varietals, as in this 100% Graševina white (otherwise known as Italian Riesling), a grape varietal that is among the most representative and distinctive of this Balkan country.

With its light-yellow color and greenish highlights, this wine combines sensations of white flowers and fruit, notably pear and vine peach, with a discreet hint of rhubarb on the nose. On the palate, it reveals delicate tastes of citrus peels with a hint of pineapple, all wrapped in fine acidity. Croatians recommend it alongside a paprika sausage called Kulen. But if you don't really appreciate cold cuts (or if you're unable to find this Croatian delicacy), this Graševina can also be enjoyed with more common dishes: fish, seafood or even white meat risotto.