Degarra, Garageist Bijeli, Zadar, Dalmatia, Croatia, 2016

This is the most exciting Croatian wine I've tasted to date: a 100% Maraština from the 2016 vintage, made in 30% stainless steel (the remainder neutral oak). This wine shows that at 8 years, it's really just getting started. It's a stunning white wine of elegance yet tremendous depth. Undeniably evocative of white Burgundy, the honeyed aromatics, poached apple and creamy notes of lemon curd and peach cream give richness to the aromas. The palate is reductive and shows excellent refinement. Honeyed apricot flesh, candied ginger piques and a brilliant mineral saline undertone. Three years after it was awarded a 2021 DWWA Gold (96pts), this wine is still building in its brilliance. Tremendous.