Croatian Wine
Croatia is a country with a rich winemaking tradition that dates back thousands of years. It has several wine regions, each with its own unique grape varieties and winemaking techniques.
Croatia's diverse geography and climate contribute to the wide array of wine styles found throughout the country. Whether you are a fan of crisp whites, robust reds, or unique indigenous grape varieties, Croatia's wine regions have something special to offer for every wine enthusiast.
Wine Regions
1. Podunavlje
2. Slavonia
3. Moslavina
4. Prigorje-Bilogora
5. Hrvatsko Zagorje-Međimurje
6. Plešivica
7. Pokuplje
8. Istria
9. Kvarner
10. Sjeverna Dalmacija
11. Dalmantinska Zagora
12. Srednja I Juzna Dalmacija
2. Slavonia (Slavonija)
Slavonia, in the northeast, is a region known for its continental climate and fertile plains. Here, you can find both white and red wines, with Graševina (Welschriesling) being the most significant white grape variety.
Slavonian wines tend to be well-balanced with a pleasant acidity.
3-7. Croatian Uplands
These region encompasses various areas around the Croatian capital, Zagreb. It's a diverse region with several local grape varieties, including Škrlet for white wines and Frankovka (Blaufränkisch) for reds. Central Croatian wines often have a fresh and fruity profile.8. Istria (Istra)
Istria, in the northwest, is one of Croatia's most famous wine regions. It is known for both red and white wines, with Malvazija and Teran being two of the most significant grape.
Istrian wines are characterized by fresh and crisp flavors, making them ideal for the region's delicious seafood dishes.
9. Kvarner (Kvarnerski)
Kvarner: Situated in the coastal area of northern Croatia, Kvarner is known for its crisp and aromatic white wines. the region's native grape, Žlahtina, produces light and refreshing wines, perfect for the warm Mediterranean climate.
10-11. Dalmatia (Dalmacija)
Dalmatia, along the Adriatic coast, is another well-known Croatian wine region. It offers a wide variety of wines, both red and white. Plavac Mali, a red grape variety related to Zinfandel, is the standout grape in this region.
Dalmatian wines are often full-bodied, rich, and robust, showcasing the region's sunny Mediterranean climate.
12. Pelješac (Dalmatia South)
Pelješac is a small but crucial wine region known for producing top-quality red wines.
The Plavac Mali grape thrives here, benefiting from the peninsula's steep slopes and ample sunshine. Pelješac Peninsula
Croatian Grapes
| Grape | Hectares |
|---|---|
| Welschriesling | 6,000 |
| Istrian Malvasia | 2,200 |
| Plavac Mali | 1,900 |
| Merlot | 1,000 |
| Cab Sauvignon | 900 |
| Plavina | 800 |
| Chardonnay | 800 |
| Riesling | 700 |
| Blaufrankisch | 600 |
Plavac Mali
Plavac Mali is a red grape indigenous to Croatia, It is the most significant variety in Dalmatia, and the third most popular variety in Croatia, after Welschriesling and Malvasia.
Plavac Mali produces strong wines with high alcohol, high tannins and strong flavours of blackberry, black cherry, pepper, dry figs, and spices.
Plavac Mali translates to small blue, and was the first croatic grape to have its own appellations Dingač and Postup.
Plavac mali pairs best with hard, salty and spicy cheeses, game dishes such as boar, casseroles and rich dishes served with thick sauce.
Welschriesling (Graševina)
Welschriesling is a primary grape in Slavonia and Podunavljeis. It is popular because it is fruitful and resistant to diseases, and it pairs well with the of Slavonia cuisine.
Welschriesling is used to produce different styles of wines: Fresh and mineral Welschriesling. Complex wines from late harvest, selected harvest of dried grapes, and ice harvest, producing sweet and aromatic (predicate) dessert wines.
Welschriesling also grows in other countries in central and east Europe. Synonyms: Laško Riesling, Riesling Italiano, Olasz Riesling and Grašica.
Istrian Malvasia (Malvazija Istarska)
Istrian Malvasia is considered to be a local Istrian grape. It growns on the entire Istrian peninsula, as well as in Slovenia and Italy.
Istrian Malvasia is rich and fruitful and produces wines with high alcohol, medium acidity and floral and fruity aromas.
In Croatia it is used to produce 3 basic types of wine: Base Malvasia (low-quality wine intended for fast consumption) Fresh Malvasia IQ (Istrian Quality mark), produced from high-quality grapes, and Matured Malvasia matured for minimum two years.
Matured Istrian Malvasia is one of few white wines that can be stored for more thanr ten years. it pairs especially well pork tenderloin, pasta with asparagus and vegetables, grilled white fish and also meat dishes such as veal.