PANNONIA'S HIDDEN TREASURES
The countryside of eastern Croatia are its main breadbasket but also its largest wine region. Surrounded by fields and valuable forests of Slavonian oak, highly appreciated among winemakers worldwide, Slavonia & the Danube area is bursting with rich Central European migratory cultures and heritage, reflected in their abundant tables and, of course, in their glasses. This is a region of deeply rooted living traditions and diverse folklore. It is home to lavish folk costumes and provocative bećarac songs accompanied by tamburitza and string orchestras. Its baroque towns, fortresses, churches and interactive museums speak volumes of region's rich history. The power of nature is reflected in Pannonian hills, especially Mt. Papuk - UNESCO geopark, to whose geology and forests famous vineyards of Kutjevo and Aurea Vallis (Golden Valley) owe its specific terroir. Along the banks of Danube and Drava rivers lies the „European Amazon" – an unique oasis of biodiversity with nature parks and rich hunting grounds where the powerful wines of Baranja and Srijem are produced. That being said, Slavonia and the Danube may be Croatia's most authentic regions, still unspoiled by mass tourism – so be among the lucky few and peacefully enjoy all its sincerity and beauty.
SLAVONIA & THE DANUBE - BY THE GLASS
The winemaking tradition, established by the Roman Empire along the limes (border), has lasted for almost 2,000 years. Nearly a quarter of all vines planted in Croatia belong to the Danubian white variety graševina (aka. welschriesling), most of which is grown here. Precisely in this region, it is believed that graševina achieves the highest quality in an incredibly wide array of expressions and styles. As such, it has drawn attention to some of the world's most important wine „noses“. Famous gewürztraminer from Ilok and some fine examples of chardonnay can be found here too. A range of red varieties prosper across the region, blaufränkisch and zweigelt in particular. Some classic reds like pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon or franc and merlot have also found a new home here, especially in Baranja and along the Danube. Wines, stored in gators (traditional cellars) or ancient basements, are sparelessly poured on kirvajs (parish parton saint celebrations) and praised during St. Martin and St. Vincent festivities. Many believe that local wines offer probably the best value for money.
CUISINE OF SLAVONIA & THE DANUBE
Here, the calories are never counted, only courses! Locals have mastered charcuterie and dry cured meats like kulen – „king of sausages“ or it's sibling kulenova seka, made of their beloved indigenous breed of black pig fajferica, čvarci (pork cracklings) or game sausages. There are myriad of meat dishes – from spicy čobanac to roasts. Bordered by large rivers and full of ponds, the region offers many fish specialties such as the famous fiš paprikaš (traditional fish stew). The dishes are filling and richly seasoned, reflecting the influence of neighboring Hungary. Desserts are the pride of Slavonia. Ancient tačkrli and salenjaci (made with pork fat) are filled with excellent home-made jams. Lovers of small cookies "for weddings and festivities", savory or sweet pies and decorated cakes will find their way here. Every meal, as well as any conversation, starts here with good fruit brandies. Šljivovica (plum), viljamovka (pear), dunjevača (quince) or apricot brandy, just like wine, perfectly complement the local cuisine and are a sign of the host's hospitality that you will feel in every sip and bite.
Indulge yourself with all the charms and pleasures this authentic region has to offer. Contact us for exclusive private and tailor-made tours or tastings we organize in Slavonia & Danube and it's neighbouring regions.
