Nestled in the rugged terrains of Croatia's Pelješac peninsula, Vinarija Križ stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity in winemaking. At its helm is Denis Bogoević Marušić, a third-generation winemaker whose journey from the urban landscapes of Split to the ancestral vineyards of Prizdrina has been nothing short of transformative.

In 2004, Denis returned to his family's roots, embracing the time-honored practices passed down through generations. Together with his father, Mile, they cultivate two hectares of south-facing vineyards, characterized by steep 45-degree slopes and a challenging mix of limestone and dolomitic sand soils. This demanding terroir, combined with the relentless Mediterranean sun, yields the indigenous Plavac Mali and the rare Grk grapes, each vine producing less than half a kilogram of fruit. Such low yields result in wines of exceptional concentration and character.

Denis's commitment to purity is evident in every aspect of his craft. Since 2008, Vinarija Križ has adhered to organic viticulture, earning the distinction of being the first certified ecological grape growers in the region. Drawing inspiration from biodynamic principles, especially after guidance from pioneers like Alex Podolinsky, Denis employs natural preparations and follows lunar cycles to enhance vine vitality. In the cellar, he favors old, untoasted Slavonian oak barrels, allowing for spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts. This minimalist intervention ensures that each bottle authentically reflects the essence of its origin.

The wines of Vinarija Križ are a liquid narrative of their homeland. The flagship Plavac Mali offers a deep, mineral-rich profile, embodying the resilience of vines rooted in rocky soils. The Rozi Križ, a dry rosé, captivates with its pomegranate hue and vibrant fruit aromas, while the macerated Grk stands out with its distinctive orange tint and full-bodied complexity, challenging conventional white wine paradigms.

Denis's philosophy transcends mere winemaking; it's a holistic approach that honors the land, the vines, and the rich tapestry of Croatian wine heritage. By seamlessly integrating ancestral wisdom with contemporary insights, Vinarija Križ not only preserves tradition but also elevates it, offering wines that are both a tribute to the past and a beacon for the future.

The wines:

Grk

A dry white wine made 100% from the Grk native grape from Dalmatia. The wines shows a full taste, unique scent and orange colour specific to macerated wines that have been aged in wood. A wine that stands out from the trend of the uniform white wines of today

Native yeast, short (~1 week) maceration, no additive but 8ppm total SO2. 1 year aging in slavonian barrels. 14% abv.  

Plavac Mali Milo (blue label)

Red wine made 100% from Plavac Mali. The wine differs from the other Plavac Mali mostly from the vineyards. Open tank natural fermentation and 1 year aging in large 600l wooden casks. No additive. A very approachable and drinkable expression of Plavac Mali showing all the complexity of the limestone soil of the peninsula. 14.5% abv.

Plavac Mali

This other Plavac Mali is coming from a different vineyard and can be seen as a single-vineyard / grand cru. Winemaking is very similar but the wine is totally different. Bigger body, bigger tannins, a very serious food wine. A real expression of this old parcel of Plavac Mali.  Open tank natural fermentation and 1 year aging in large 600l wooden casks. No additive. 14.5% abv.