Staff Selections • Keri Brown
Seasonal Pick 2025
Bilo Idro ‘Marina Cuvee’
(Bijeli, Croatia)
Surdyk's Price:
While I was on the lookout for something a bit different for our spring selection, I wandered the aisles and came across a bottle with the cutest little sailboat on the label. Instantly, I was hooked. It had that perfect blend of charm and intrigue, and I couldn’t help but be inspired. So, let me take you to Bilo Idro, Zlatan Otok’s magical little marina-side hideaway nestled in the postcard-perfect village of Sveta Nedilja on Hvar, Croatia. Picture this: twinkling Adriatic waters, seafood so fresh it practically jumps off the boat, and a breeze so light and refreshing it makes you forget what day it is—or, honestly, that emails even exist. Now, let’s talk Marina Cuvee: this delightful, cheeky, mineral-packed white wine that’s basically a vacation in a bottle. It's made from a blend of indigenous Croatian grape varietals (and I won’t try to pronounce them, so just trust me when I say it's something special). This wine is zippy and fresh, with that distinct Dalmatian salty charm—like it’s just taken a dive off a sailboat into the Adriatic. It’s everything you want when you're dreaming of sun-kissed shores and a glass of something crisp in hand. Fermented and aged on the lees in stainless steel (don’t worry, it just means it’s fresh, clean, and packed with flavor), this wine is perfect for pairing with all the simple, delicious things that make island life so amazing. Think grilled fish, sushi, fresh veggies, olive oil-drenched pasta, or just a few hours of doing absolutely nothing but soaking up good vibes and sunshine. Serve chilled, sip slowly, and let your taste buds take a trip to the coast. Warning: this wine may inspire a spontaneous flight to Hvar.