Merga Victa Pošip 2021

The Merga Victa Pošip is a special original wine from the island of Korčula, the very birthplace of this beloved indigenous varietal. Vines are at least 15 years old and planted in three different soil types (red soil, sand and rocky) to achieve the perfect balance.

Tasting Notes

Gold color and gorgeous clarity in the glass. Aromas and flavors of peach, with a crisp finish and a smooth texture. The variety is highly aromatic with a tendency to produce high sugars and alcohol. The stone fruit aromas are reminiscent of Viognier and the Merga Victa is quite a stunner – ripe citrus and floral on a medium, textured palate with a lingering floral finish with a touch of herbaceousness.

Region

Just off the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, in the center of the island of Korčula, the freshwater ponds that feed the vineyards of the village of Smokvica are a remarkable gift of nature. Locals call this place “Merga Victa,” meaning “path for water” in old Dalmatian.

It was here that in 1880, a farmer named Marin Tomašić spotted a wild grapevine growing in the forest. He was immediately drawn to its fruity aroma and exquisite intense flavor, and decided to plant the grapes in his own vineyard. Aware that he had stumbled across an exceptional gift of nature, Tomašić generously shared the secret with his friends and neighbors. In 1967, Pošip became the first white wine variety in Croatia with a protected geographic label. The only true Pošip is a Pošip from Korčula.

The Arbor Gold

Some have posited, based on geographic and sensual descriptions, that The Arbor Gold referenced in The Game of Thrones is, in fact, the Pošip.

“Sansa dutifully lifted the goblet with both hands and took a sip. The wine was very fine; an Arbor vintage, she thought. It tasted of oak and fruit and hot summer nights, the flavors blossoming in her mouth like flowers opening to the sun.” A Storm of Swords By George R. R. Martin.

The Arbor is an island off the southwestern coast of Westeros, separated from the mainland by a narrow strait. A major wine producer, it’s the seat of House Redwyne whose sigil is a grape cluster. And you see, Korčula is also an island that lies off the Dalmatian coast, separated from the Pelješac peninsula by the narrow Strait of Pelješac.

Pronunciation Guide

Pošip  (POSH-ip)

Korčula (CORE-choo-lah)

Smokvica (smoke-vit-sah)

Tomašić (tome-ash-ich)