The Traveller’s Guide to Croatian Wine

January 8, 2025

When it comes to wine tourism, Croatia is often overlooked in favour of heavyweights like France or Italy. But for those willing to explore, Croatia offers a blend of history, culture, and wine that rivals the charm of its Mediterranean neighbours. This guide will take you through the essentials of Croatian wine, linking its vibrant wine culture to the country’s top destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or someone who just enjoys a glass of something good on holiday, Croatia has something for you.

History of Croatia’s Wine Regions

Croatia’s winemaking history stretches back over 2,500 years, beginning with the ancient Greeks who settled on the island of Hvar. Hvar’s Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, still bears the marks of these early vineyards. A visit here is like stepping into the cradle of Croatian viticulture. Pair a local Pošip, a dry white wine, with a plate of fresh Adriatic seafood to truly connect with this ancient legacy.

Later, the Romans expanded Croatia’s wine traditions, particularly in Dalmatia. Visitors in Split can explore the Diocletian Palace’s underground cellars, where an ancient wine press still stands.

Beyond Split, nearby regions like Kaštela and Imotski offer a deeper dive into Dalmatia’s unique winemaking history. Kaštela is famed for being the ancestral home of Zinfandel, known locally as Crljenak Kaštelanski, while Imotski’s vineyards thrive in a karst landscape, producing bold reds like Trnjak and fragrant whites such as Kujundžusa, thanks to the unique soil and sunny microclimates of the Imotski region. Dalmatia produces wines shaped by the region’s distinct microclimates, ancient heritage, and rugged coastal terrain.

In Istria, winemaking is a celebrated art passed down through generations. This region’s rolling hills and Mediterranean climate create the perfect setting for cultivating Malvazija Istarska, a beloved white wine known for its floral and citrusy notes. Historical records show that winemaking in Istria dates back to Roman times, with amphorae discovered near Poreč indicating a thriving wine trade. Today, Istrian winemakers continue this legacy by combining traditional techniques with sustainable practices.

Slavonia’s vineyards, particularly in the ‘Golden Valley’ of Kutjevo, have been producing exceptional wines for centuries. Winemaking here flourished during the Habsburg Monarchy, with the Kutjevo winery dating back to 1232, making it one of the oldest in Croatia. Known for its fertile plains, this region is home to Graševina, a white wine that perfectly balances freshness and complexity. Graševina’s adaptability to Slavonia’s diverse microclimates has allowed it to become Croatia’s most planted variety.

In the Croatian Uplands, innovation meets heritage. This area near Zagreb is renowned for its cool climate, ideal for sparkling wines and Pinot Noirs. Plešivica, often called the Champagne of Croatia, has a winemaking tradition that spans over 800 years. The region’s limestone-rich soils create the perfect conditions for producing world-class sparkling wines.

Wine Destinations

1. Dalmatia

Known for its sun-soaked coastline and islands, Dalmatia is a haven for red wine lovers. Plavac Mali, a close relative of Zinfandel, is the star here.

Where to visit: Korčula, the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo, is also home to Pošip and Grk, two native white wine varieties. Stop by Lumbarda for a glass of Grk paired with local olives and cheese.
Pairing tip: A glass of Plavac Mali pairs well with Dalmatian pašticada, a slow-cooked beef dish marinated in wine and spices, offering an authentic taste of the region.

2. Istria

Nicknamed ‘Croatia’s Tuscany,’ Istria is famed for its Malvazija Istarska, a crisp white wine with floral notes.

Where to visit: Visit the picturesque coastal town of Rovinj and pair Malvazija with truffle-infused pasta—Istria’s culinary treasure.
Pairing tip: Malvazija also pairs beautifully with oysters, making it a great choice for a seaside lunch.

3. Slavonia and the Danube

This eastern region is a paradise for white wine enthusiasts. Graševina (Riesling) is recognized as one of Croatia’s finest wines, regularly garnering awards at international competitions.

Where to visit: Kutjevo, known as the ‘Vallis Aurea’ (Golden Valley), offers centuries-old cellars and wineries.
Pairing tip: Pair Graševina with a Kulen, a spicy Slavonian sausage, for a taste of the region’s robust flavours.

4. Croatian Uplands

This lesser-known region is gaining attention for its sparkling wines and Pinot Noir. Its proximity to Zagreb makes it an easy day trip for city travellers.

Where to visit: Explore Plešivica, known as Croatia’s Champagne, and sample sparkling wines that rival the best of France.
Pairing tip: A sparkling rosé pairs wonderfully with Zagorski štrukli, a traditional baked pastry filled with cheese.

How to Plan a Croatian Wine Tour

Every year, more wine and travel enthusiasts discover that Croatia is an ideal wine tourism destination. The best time to visit is during the late spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild, and vineyards are at their most vibrant. Travelling between regions is easy thanks to Croatia’s compact size and well-connected roads, making car travel a convenient option. For a more adventurous experience, consider exploring wine regions by bike or embarking on a yacht wine tour along the Dalmatian coast. Many wine regions, from Istria to Dalmatia, can be explored over the course of a few days, allowing visitors to savour the diversity of Croatian wines. For more information, reach out to Anchor Croatia to inquire about our custom itineraries and tapping into the expertise of Jen, founder and certified sommelier.

Best Wineries to Visit in Croatia

Dalmatia

Bire Winery (Korčula): Known for its exceptional Grk wines, this family-run winery offers stunning views of the Lumbarda vineyards.
Miloš Winery (Pelješac): A historic estate celebrated for its Plavac Mali wines, using organic methods.
Stina Winery (Brač): Renowned for its innovative labels and seaside location, holds the distinction of being the closest wineries to the sea.

Istria

Kozlović Winery (Momjan): A modern estate blending tradition and innovation, known for its Malvazija and Teran.
Benvenuti Winery (Motovun): Bold, experimental wines with a focus on sustainability.
Kabola Winery (Momjan): Renowned for its amphora-aged Malvazija and hilltop setting.

Slavonia and the Danube

Kutjevo Winery (Kutjevo): One of Croatia’s oldest wineries, known for its award-winning Graševina.
Belje Winery (Baranja): Known as the largest Croatian producer of grapes.
Iločki Podrumi (Ilok): A historic winery producing premium Traminac and Graševina wines.

Croatian Uplands

Šember Winery (Plešivica): Renowned for crafting artisanal sparkling wines that capture the region’s cool-climate character.
Korak Winery (Plešivica): Offers boutique experiences.
Bolfan Vinski Vrh (Hrašćina): A biodynamic winery focusing on sustainable practices and authentic flavours.

Unique Croatian Wine Traditions

Gemišt

This refreshing drink combines white wine with sparkling water and is a summer staple. Light and effervescent, it’s perfect for the beach or after a long hike.

Bevanda

A blend of red wine and still water, Bevanda is a rustic coastal tradition that originated with vineyard workers seeking hydration.

Harvest Blessings

In November, Croatia celebrates St. Martin’s Day (“Martinje”), marking the end of the grape harvest and the traditional blessing of the vineyards. This centuries-old custom includes symbolic ceremonies where must (young wine) is “baptised” into wine, accompanied by music, feasts, and local traditions.

Crno Vino

In Croatia, the term “crno vino,” which translates to “black wine,” is used to describe red wine. Unlike most European languages that refer to red wine as “red”, Croatian tradition highlights the wine’s deep, dark hues with this unique descriptor.

Why Croatia is the Next Big Wine Destination

Croatia’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a dream destination for wine lovers. Its native grape varieties and regional specialities offer something new for even the most experienced wine drinkers. Add in world-class food, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep sense of tradition, and you have it all.

We hope this guide has sparked your curiosity to explore the world of Croatian wine, from its deep historical roots to its modern innovation. If you’re interested in seeing the best of coastal Croatia while learning all there is to know about the region’s wine, learn more about Anchor Croatia’s “Taste of Croatia” Cruise hosted by an on-board sommelier here.

Cheers, or as the locals say, “Živjeli!”

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