Croatia, the pearl of the Adriatic Sea and nicknamed the Land Of A Thousand Islands, is home to a rich and diverse wine culture that dates back thousands of years. The country’s unique geography, with its varied climates and terrains, has given rise to an impressive range of grape varieties and wine styles, all of which are waiting to be sampled on your next Croatian adventure.
Join us as we embark on a journey through the main Croatian wine regions and explore some of the best wines that this Mediterranean gem has to offer.
Istria & Kvarner
Located in the northwestern part of Croatia, Istria is a picturesque peninsula known for its truffle-infused cuisine, ancient hilltop towns, and vibrant wine scene. The region’s mild Mediterranean climate and mineral-rich soil make it ideal for growing both white and red grape varieties. The region is, accordingly, a producer of arguably the best selection of Croatian wines in the country.
Malvazija Istarska, a native white grape variety, is the star of Istria. It produces fresh, aromatic wines with notes of green apple, citrus, and almond. Be sure to try Kozlović Malvazija or Trapan Malvazija as prime examples of this varietal.
Teran, a red grape variety, is another Istrian specialty. Teran wines are characterised by their deep ruby colour, high acidity, and flavours of red fruit and earthy notes. Notable producers include Coronica and Clai, whose Teran wines showcase the grape’s potential for complexity and elegance.
Istria and Kvarner are also home to some of the most breathtaking wineries and wine tours in Croatia. Istria, in particular, is renowned for its unique terroir, producing complex and aromatic wines with a distinct mineral character. Some of the best wineries to visit include Kozlović, where the tasting room overlooks the vineyards and the sea, and Coronica, where the focus is on native grape varieties.
In Kvarner, the island of Krk is a must-visit for wine lovers, with wineries like Katunar offering guided tours of the vineyards and cellar, followed by tastings of their award-winning wines. Other recommended wineries in Kvarner include Zdjelarević, where you can learn about the traditional winemaking process, and Vrbnik, where the local Žlahtina grape thrives.
Slavonia & The Croatian Danube
Situated in the northeastern part of Croatia, Slavonia and the Croatian Danube region are characterised by their fertile plains and continental climate. This area is known for its production of high-quality white wines made from both international and indigenous grape varieties.
Graševina, also known as Welschriesling, is the most widely planted grape in this region. It produces crisp, refreshing wines with flavours of green apple, citrus, and floral notes. Some of the best Graševina wines come from producers such as Ilok Cellars, Krauthaker, and Kutjevo Abbey.
Traminac, or Gewürztraminer, is another popular white grape variety in Slavonia. It produces aromatic, spicy wines with flavours of lychee, rose, and ginger. Top Traminac wines can be found at wineries like Belje, FeraVino, and Galic.
As the team at Villas Guide in Slavonia tell us, one of the top-rated wineries is Slavonia’s Kutjevo, which has been producing wine for over 800 years. Their Graševina is a must-try. Another standout winery is Iločki Podrumi, located in the town of Ilok, whose Traminac is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. For a more unique experience, visit Vinarija Kolar, a small family-owned winery in the village of Zmajevac. Their wines are made with organic grapes and aged in centuries-old cellars.
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Dalmatia
The Dalmatian coast, stretching along the Adriatic Sea, is home to some of Croatia’s most iconic landscapes and historic cities, including Dubrovnik and Split. The region’s warm climate and rugged terrain give rise to a wide array of indigenous grape varieties and distinctive wines.
Plavac Mali, a red grape variety closely related to Zinfandel, is the most prominent grape in Dalmatia. It produces bold, full-bodied wines with flavours of blackberry, plum, and pepper. The best Plavac Mali wines come from the appellations of Dingač and Postup on the Pelješac Peninsula. Look for producers like Miloš, Bura, and Saints Hills for outstanding examples of Plavac Mali.
Pošip, a native white grape variety, is grown primarily on the island of Korčula. Pošip wines are known for their rich texture, bright acidity, and flavours of tropical fruit and citrus. Top producers include Stina, Korta Katarina, and Toreta, which showcase the elegance and depth of this varietal.
One of the standout wineries in the area is Korta Katarina, located on the Pelješac peninsula. Their award-winning Pošip and Plavac Mali wines are a must-try, and the stunning views from their vineyard make it a top destination. Another must-visit winery is Duboković, a family-owned business that has been producing wine for over 200 years. Their Dingač and Postup wines are particularly noteworthy, with a complex flavour profile that reflects the region’s unique terroir.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, make your way to Brac Island and visit Stina Winery. Their Pošip and Plavac Mali wines are made using sustainable and organic methods, and their contemporary tasting room offers a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea.
The Bottom Line
Croatia’s diverse wine regions offer a treasure trove of unique and captivating wines that are waiting to be discovered. From the crisp whites of Istria and Kvarner to the robust reds of Dalmatia and the aromatic gems of Slavonia and the Croatian Danube, there is a Croatian wine to suit every palate. So, pour yourself a glass, and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey through the best wines from Croatia. Cheers!
If that’s not convinced you to visit, check out these 5 reasons you might want to visit Croatia ASAP. Go, go, go!