Prigorje-Bilogora is located in northeastern Croatia east of the city of Zagreb and is divided into the two subregions that give it its name. Bilogora is bordered by the two rivers Sava and Drava. Despite having a long vinous history, vineyards are very fragmented and many are cultivated by small or hobbyist winegrowers. Away from the Mediterranean, Prigorje-Bilogora is one of the cooler wine-growing region in Croatia, with moderately warm summers and cold winters, so admirably suited for white wines. As well as dry and sparkling wines, many sweet wines are produced from autochthonous varieties such as Belina or Moslavac. As with many of the smaller Croatian regions the wines hardly leave the country, being consumed locally. The rivers and the cool, wet autumns contribute to the formation of the noble rot Botrytis cinerea, making it ideal terrain for dessert wines. The old, traditional varieties vie for attention alongside new vineyards planted with international white wine varieties such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Only time will show what these international varieties are capable of achieving here.
