Frajla
Fruška Gora in Pink: The Elegance of Summer and the Charm of Tomcat’s Rosé
If Fruška Gora is the kingdom of white wines, then its rosés are the airy, seductive side of the mountain that brings pure joy to the glass. The same conditions that favour fresh white wines — cool nights that preserve acidity and sunny days that develop aromas — are the perfect foundation for creating modern, elegant rosés.
Gone are the days when rosé in this region was a by-product of red wine production, often heavy and dark. Today, Fruška Gora winemakers deliberately grow grapes for rosé, aiming for that “Provençal” ideal: a delicate salmon hue, intense fruitiness, and the necessary crispness that quenches thirst.
Varieties such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Portugieser yield grapes on Fruška Gora’s slopes that, with shorter maceration, become wines that smell of spring and summer.
Tomcat Cellar: A Rosé with the Soul of Srem
In the heart of Irig, Tomcat winery, led by the charismatic Sava Jojić Mačak, cultivates a wine philosophy meant to be enjoyed, honouring the motto “Drinking wine, indulging life.” Their approach to rosé perfectly reflects the bohemian spirit of Srem.
For Tomcat winery, rosé is not merely a seasonal refreshment; it must have character while above all being “drinkable” — a quality most prized in Srem’s wine culture. That means one glass irresistibly calls for another.
Tomcat’s Frajla: The Lady of Irig
When speaking of the rosé from Tomcat winery (often affectionately called “Mačkova Frajla”), one speaks of a wine that defines summer hedonism.
Style and Character: This rosé is typically a carefully balanced blend of Portugieser and Pinot Noir, crafted with a single aim — to deliver maximum freshness and fruit.
- Colour: In line with modern trends, Tomcat’s rosé usually displays a gentle, light-pink colour, like a rose petal or pale salmon, promising elegance at first glance.
- Aroma: This is the most seductive part. As soon as you bring the glass to your nose, an intense wave of red berries washes over you. Dominant notes of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and red currants prevail. The scent is pure, direct, and irresistibly reminiscent of a basket of just-picked fruit. No heavy notes — just clean fruity energy.
- Palate: On the palate, the wine delivers on the promise of its aromas. It is dry, but the abundance of fruit flavours gives it a succulent impression. Acidity is lively, providing structure and a finish that refreshes and cleanses the palate. The body is light to medium, perfectly balanced.
Food Pairing Potential: Tomcat’s Frajla is extremely versatile at the table — a true “chameleon” with food.
- As an aperitif: Serve chilled at 8–10°C, perfect on a terrace while the sun sets.
- With food: Its freshness pairs beautifully with light summer salads (such as caprese or shopska) or antipasti with prosciutto and melon. It also goes well with grilled dishes, especially chicken or sausages, or with a lighter stew.
