Along the Danube River's banks in eastern Croatia, Ilok is a hidden gem with a rich history and a deep-rooted winemaking tradition. This picturesque town, known for its medieval architecture and rolling vineyards, has been producing wine since Roman times. Ilok's winemaking history is legendary. The town's fertile soil and ideal climate have made it a prime location for vineyards for centuries.

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The latest addition to Ilok's vibrant wine scene is Kast Winery, the brainchild of the Kovčalija family. Already well-known for their exceptional hospitality with Hotel and Restaurant Dunav, the Kovčalijas have been instrumental in putting Ilok on the gastronomic map of Croatia. Their restaurant is famous for its delicious dishes, particularly those featuring river fish and other local Srijem specialties. Now, they're bringing that same dedication and passion to winemaking.

A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Kast Winery stands proudly among the world's top wineries, rivaling those in Tuscany, Provence, and Rioja. The family has enlisted the expertise of Goran Perić from Istria, a renowned technological designer, to equip the winery's cellar with state-of-the-art technology. This modern approach is complemented by a deep respect for tradition, creating a unique winemaking process.

The cellar at Kast Winery is a homage to the rich winemaking history of Ilok and is divided into four distinct sections, each representing a pivotal era. The first section is dedicated to the present day, featuring stainless steel tanks with controlled temperatures, ensuring the precision and quality of modern winemaking. The second section reflects the Austro-Hungarian tradition, with concrete tanks that allow wines to mature in a manner that has been revered for centuries. The third section is devoted to the medieval period, where wooden barrels impart unique characteristics to the wines, reminiscent of an era where craftsmanship was paramount. Finally, the fourth section harks back to ancient times during the Roman Empire, showcasing terracotta amphorae, which offer a glimpse into the age-old winemaking practices.

The Wines

Kast Winery offers a selection of wines that truly capture the essence of eastern Croatia, including Traminac, Graševina, Frankovka, and Chardonnay. Each wine is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting Ilok's unique terroir and the winemaking expertise that has been honed over generations.

For example, Graševina KAST is a dry white wine with a medium to full body and exceptionally fresh, pronounced fruity aromas. The grapes are hand-picked, carefully selected, and macerated for 6-8 hours. The wine is then aged for six months on fine lees in four different materials: half in stainless steel tanks and the other half in concrete eggs, ceramic amphoras, and wooden barrels.

Traminac KAST, on the other hand, is a semi-dry white wine with distinct floral aromatics. The grapes are also hand-picked and meticulously selected, with a maceration period of 12 hours. This wine is aged for eight months in stainless steel containers, resulting in a well-rounded profile while retaining its freshness, delicacy, and characteristic aroma.

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A Visit to Remember

Visiting Kast Winery is more than just a wine tasting; it's an experience. As you step into the winery, you journey through time. The Kovčalija family's vision and dedication have created a space where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously. Whether you're savoring a glass of Traminac, exploring the historic cellar, or simply enjoying the stunning views of the Danube, Kast Winery promises an unforgettable experience.

So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the magic of Ilok and the exceptional wines of Kast Winery. It's a journey you won't want to miss!

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