Žilavka - White Wine

🍇 What is Žilavka?

Žilavka is a white wine grape variety that comes from the Herzegovina region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially around the Mostar area. It’s one of the most important local white grapes in that region and has a long tradition in Balkan winemaking.

🍷 Characteristics of Žilavka Wine

Color & Style: Typically a dry white wine with a straw‑yellow to greenish hue.
Body & Acidity: Usually light to medium-bodied with medium to high acidity, which makes it fresh and vibrant.
Alcohol: Moderate to moderately high alcohol levels (often ~12–14%).
Aromas & Flavours: Prominent citrus fruits (lemon, lemon zest), green apple/pear, stone fruit, mineral notes, sometimes floral or nutty undertones; oak‑aged versions can show vanilla, toast, or earthier characters.
Complexity: While many examples are fresh and fruit‑forward, some producers age Žilavka in oak or on lees to add layers of texture and complexity.

🍽️ Typical Pairings

Because of its crisp acidity and balanced mouthfeel, Žilavka is highly food‑friendly, especially with:
✔ Grilled or fresh fish and seafood
✔ Shellfish
✔ Poultry and light meat dishes
✔ Fresh cheeses and salads
✔ Mediterranean cuisine with herbs, olive oil, citrus elements

Serving temperature is best around 10–12 °C to bring out freshness.

🌍 Where It’s Grown

Though most widely planted in Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Žilavka also appears in parts of neighboring countries like Montenegro, Serbia, and North Macedonia.

🍷 Wine Style Variations

Fresh, unoaked — crisp, citrusy, mineral.
Barrel‑influenced (oak aged) — richer, more textured with nutty or toasty notes.
Traditional field blends — sometimes blended with other local varieties like Bena or Krkosija in small amounts.