Prošek

Traditional Croatian dessert wine

Prošek is a traditional dessert wine originating from Croatia, particularly from the Dalmatian region. It is a sweet wine made from dried grapes, often enjoyed as a dessert or aperitif. Prošek is distinct from the Italian wine Prosecco, despite the similarity in their names.

Production

Prošek wine from Croatia

Prošek is produced using a method known as passito, where grapes are dried to concentrate their sugars before fermentation. The grapes used are typically local varieties such as Plavac Mali, Pošip, and Maraština. The drying process can take several weeks, during which the grapes are laid out on straw mats or hung in well-ventilated areas.

Once the grapes have dried sufficiently, they are pressed to extract the concentrated juice. Fermentation is then carried out, often in wooden barrels, which can impart additional flavors to the wine. The resulting wine is rich, sweet, and full-bodied, with a high alcohol content.

Characteristics

Prošek is known for its deep amber color and complex flavor profile, which includes notes of dried fruits, honey, and nuts. The wine's sweetness is balanced by its acidity, making it a popular choice for pairing with desserts such as figs, almonds, and cheese.

Cultural Significance

In Croatia, Prošek holds a special place in the country's gastronomy and is often served during celebrations and festive occasions. It is considered a symbol of Croatian heritage and is protected under national law as a traditional product.

Controversy

The name "Prošek" has been the subject of controversy due to its similarity to "Prosecco," an Italian sparkling wine. The European Union has regulations protecting the names of certain products, and there have been disputes over the use of the name "Prošek" in international markets. Despite these challenges, Prošek remains a beloved wine in Croatia.

Related pages

• Dalmatian cuisine
• Croatian wine
• Dessert wine
• Passito