Wines Plesivica Šoškic - Haiku 4 - 2020

Šoškić’s Cuvée Haiku 4 2020 from the Plesivica appellation in central Croatia is a striking example of the region’s burgeoning reputation for distinctive orange wines. Crafted as a dry wine, it expresses the traditional amber-toned style for which Plesivica is increasingly celebrated. The precise blend is not specified, a common feature in such small-lot, artisanal cuvées; local grapes like Graševina, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Traminer are often used in orange wine production here, and Šoškić is known for both indigenous and international varietals. Expect a vibrant interplay of aromas: dried apricot, citrus peel, subtle floral notes, and perhaps a whisper of wild herbs, all delivered on a complex, structured palate shaped by extended skin contact during vinification.

Plesivica, northwest of Zagreb in central Croatia, occupies gentle rolling hills at elevations well-suited to producing wines with freshness and precision. The terroir is defined by a cooler continental climate and mineral-rich limestone soils, which give local wines a bright acidity and expressive minerality. The history of the region dates back centuries, but it has enjoyed a renaissance in the past decade—making it a hotspot for natural winemaking and low intervention approaches, such as those seen with macerated whites or orange wines like this one.

Orange wines such as the Šoškić Cuvée Haiku 4 are remarkably food-friendly. Their texture, depth, and gentle tannins make them excellent partners for dishes rich in umami, like wild mushroom risotto, roasted root vegetables, or lightly spiced North African cuisine. For a truly regional pairing, try it with Croatian štrukli (baked cheese dumplings) or cold platter of smoked trout. The wine’s acidity can also refresh the palate alongside fattier fish or game dishes.

To fully appreciate this orange wine, serve it slightly chilled but never cold—around 12-14°C is ideal. Consider decanting for up to one hour to allow the aromatics and subtle tannins to unfold, and use a white wine glass rather than a smaller, narrow flute to capture its complex bouquet.