Croatia wine country
An introduction to this fourishing wine country
Croatia as a wine country has undergone a special development in recent years. The country is now recognized as one of Europe's top wine producers. Native grape varieties sometimes have names that are difficult to pronounce, but are a good counterpart to well-known world varieties such as Merlot or Chardonnay.
This country has a diversity of climate and terroir. From the beautiful rocky coast under the clear blue Adriatic Sea to mountains, lakes and rivers of the main land, give the winemakers the unique micro climate for their production of varietal or elegant blends. Modern winemakers manage to maintain and renew a centuries-old tradition to produce quality, unique and interesting examples of wine.
Dalmatia with vines on steep terraces
Croatia is truly Mediterranean in character, but why are the wines still unknown?
When the American food guru Anthony Bourdain filmed his Croatia documentary, for his series "No Reservations", he rightly said a few times "..where am I.. is this eastern Europe?..", because he had a different idea what this country is about and expected something completely different. The region in Croatia visited turned out to be truly Mediterranean with many influences from Italy. This he could see from the locals with their colorful gestures, the Venetian architecture, a rich kitchen and a lot of high-quality wine made from indigenous and international grape varieties. It is the new cultural and culinary discovery in Europe.
the Croatian dolce vita..
Croatia has something distinct, a synergy of elements resulting in a positive perpective on life. Whether it be the green rolling hills and mountains, the azure blue sea or the warm climate, one always finds time to celebrate life, here people say život je lip! (live is beautiful). The trpeza (dining table) is the central point where dining is more than having a meal, it's a concept. In every konoba (eatery) or in people's homes you will find a bottle of wine on the table during lunch or dinner.
Dalmatian scenario, the klapa (group of singing friends) celebrating the evening with bottles of wine on the table.
History and production
Viticulture in Croatia actually dates back to 500 BC. The past, often marked by welcome or unwelcome visitors, has brought viticulture to Croatia. It where the Greeks who brought the grape varieties here, some of which are beautifully reflected today through improved vinification. The more than 1600 producers produce around 850,000 hl of wine per year. 2/3 of the production is white whine, with the indigenous Graševina as the main supplier. Of red varieties, Plavac Mali is the most produced. Today, winemakers continue the family tradition of viticulture and for many of them it's more than a job, it's a vocation. This craft is therefore an important characteristic and this is still admired every year by tourists looking for a unique experience with these families.
The country of Croatia has a diversity of wine styles, fresh to full and rich white, juicy to deep and robust red, rosé, sparkling, orange to sweet wines. Croatia has about 100 indigenous grape varieties, 40 of which are used commercially, along with several Old World varieties, to name a few, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc and Riesling. This country has different soil types and micro climates from which some unique examples of wine are produced. Croatia is currently doing a lot to promote viticulture through the Ministry of Economic Affairs and promote and promote Croatian wines through the Ministry of Tourism.
There are 4 wine regions and each is different from the other. The description of the different regions with their characteristic climate and micro climate can be found in on this section of the website. Here you will also find an explanation and extensive overview of wines as recommended by Adriavino.
The town of Draguć in Istria
Read more about Croatian wine regions Here in comprehensive overview.
