Jerković winery – where good people make good wines!
We all know what “jerko” means in English slang, but the Jerković family are one of the most wonderful winemakers in Croatia. It’s not always the case that good people make good wines, but here Providence has been kind and awarded the Jerković family with some of the best positions in Imotski vineyards.
But, as the saying goes in this god-fearing area, God gaveth and God taketh away. Father of the family, Ivan, left this world too soon, and soon after the mother too, leaving the family legacy to their sons Mate and Tomislav.
From vintage to vintage „the best Kujundžuša of Imotska Krajina“ has entered into legend. Today, old master Jerković’s minimalist masterpiece is formed by young Mate and his brother.
The distinctive, almost electric intensity of Jerković Kujundžuša still represents the ideal for this indigenous variety of Imotska Krajina.
Brutal minerality and stone-hard tonicity are the words often used to describe Jerković Kujundžuša, placing this once despised variety among the most successful wines in its category. With its lightweight, but firm body, it is ideal as an aperitif or as an accompaniment to appetizers and lighter main courses.
Somewhat richer and slightly more buttery, but equally „electric“ wine is Chardonnay, the last planted variety by this small family winery. It displays character formed in accordance with its terroir and winery’s signature.
Think of perfectly ripe apple whose freshness can handle even heavier dishes.
The most significant things are often the ones that are the rarest. Today somewhat mythical Mračaj is sparsely available. This wine of very limited supply is made of variety for which Ivan Jerković always insisted on being different than somewhat more widespread Trnjak.
The variety is called Rudežuša, and Mračaj is the name of the vineyard, named after the hill where this small plantation is located. Dry, serious, dark – just like the name of its micro location says (Croatian Mračaj means mrak= Eng. Darkness). Higher altitude is responsible for its freshness, and for its soft texture supple tannins characteristic of the variety. Its aftertaste creates spicy-herbal associations, but also the concentration of fruit which takes
Higher altitude is responsible for its freshness, and for its soft texture supple tannins characteristic of the variety. Its aftertaste creates spicy-herbal associations, but also the concentration of fruit which takes time to open up.
As a wine of subtle nuances, Mračaj is not a full-bodied wine, but it is nevertheless capable of pairing well with heavier meat dishes.
While Mračaj is a rarity in every respect, Kujundžuša is the true face of Imotski. Do you know what people of Imotski region prefer with their Kujundžuša?
Think frogs 😉
Looking for a perfect gift for friends and family? Surprise them with The Wine&more Gift Voucher and let them choose the wines they want to try.
Wine Vouchers are available in amounts of 50, 100 or 150 EUR.
Delivery options: All countries in the EU
Did you like the story at Wine&more? Share it with your friends, like, comment and earn discounts with Your loyalty program!
Interested in learning more about Croatian wine? “Cracking Croatian Wine” guide will save you time and money in researching. Get your copy here!
