Plavac Mali SYRTIS 2017

91 POINTS WINE ENTHUSIAST – 4.2/5 VIVINO – SYRTIS PLAVAC MALI 2017 – Exceptional Croatian Red from Dalmatia – Ripe Cherries, Blackberries, Warm Spices and Elegant Mineral Complexity

Volarević SYRTIS Plavac Mali 2017 is a distinctive and characterful Croatian red wine from the sun-drenched vineyards of Komarna on the Dalmatian coast. Produced from 100% Plavac Mali, Croatia's celebrated indigenous red grape, this wine combines concentrated Mediterranean fruit with savoury complexity, well-integrated tannins and an appealing mineral finish.

Plavac Mali is a fascinating variety with a close genetic connection to Zinfandel and Primitivo. It is a natural offspring of Crljenak Kaštelanski (Zinfandel) and the indigenous Croatian variety Dobričić. Although genetically related, Plavac Mali has its own distinctive personality, often producing structured wines with ripe dark fruit, pronounced tannins and Mediterranean herbal notes.

The family-owned Volarević winery cultivates vineyards in Komarna, one of Croatia's most exciting coastal wine regions. The vines grow on rocky, limestone-rich slopes overlooking the Adriatic Sea, where abundant sunshine, maritime breezes and relatively cool nights contribute to concentrated fruit, freshness and mineral character.

The 2017 offers an attractive bouquet of ripe cherries, cranberries, raspberries and redcurrants, complemented by blackberries, cloves, cinnamon, subtle oak spice and earthy nuances. On the palate, it is dry, generous and elegantly structured, with juicy red and dark berries, integrated tannins, balanced freshness and a persistent mineral finish.

The wine's distinctive character reflects both its indigenous grape variety and the demanding conditions of the Dalmatian coast. The combination of rocky limestone soils, warm Mediterranean sunshine and careful winemaking produces a red with depth, concentration and a recognisable sense of place.

The 2017 vintage offers an appealing opportunity to enjoy a mature expression of Croatian Plavac Mali. Its original vibrant berry character may have developed additional nuances of dried cherries, tobacco, leather, earthy spice and Mediterranean herbs, while its tannins have had time to soften and integrate. The wine is particularly attractive for enjoying now rather than keeping indefinitely.

An elegant and distinctive Croatian red – combining ripe Mediterranean fruit, warm spices, refined tannins and a lingering mineral finish. A wonderful discovery for lovers of Primitivo, Zinfandel and characterful southern Italian reds.

International Recognition – 2017 Vintage

91 Points – Wine Enthusiast (July 2025)

4.2/5 – Vivino, 2017 Vintage