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Your Guide to Croatian Wine

Croatia is home to over 130 indigenous grape varieties and four distinct wine regions—from sparkling Plešivica to sun-drenched Dalmatia. Learn about Croatia's rich wine heritage, and discover why the Plešivica region near Zagreb has become a must-visit destination for wine lovers.

Why choose Croatia for wine travel?

Croatia is one of Europe’s most underrated wine countries. Wine has been produced here for over 2,000 years, with roots dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times. The country’s diverse climate, limestone-rich soils and long winemaking tradition have resulted in an impressive range of wine styles.

Today, Croatia is home to more than 130 indigenous grape varieties – more per capita than any other wine-producing country in the world. Many of these grapes are grown on a small scale and are rarely found outside Croatia.

A comprehensive comparison

The Four Wine Regions of Croatia

Region	Key Varieties	Climate	Best For
The Uplands (Plešivica)Featured	Riesling and Chardonnay.	Continental with cool nights	Sparkling wine, boutique wineries, day trips from Zagreb.
Istria	Malvazija Istarska and Teran.	Mediterranean-Continental	White wines, truffles, olive oil and coastal towns.
Dalmatia	Powerful red wines such as Plavac Mali, as wellas distinctive local white varieties.	Mediterranean, hot and dry	Red wines, coastal experiences and islands.
Slavonia & Danube	Graševina, Traminac, Frankovka	Continental, warm summers	Traditional wine cellars and classic wine styles.

The Uplands (Plešivica)

Featured

Riesling and Chardonnay.

Continental with cool nights

Sparkling wine, boutique wineries, day trips from Zagreb.

Istria

Malvazija Istarska and Teran.

Mediterranean-Continental

White wines, truffles, olive oil and coastal towns.

Dalmatia

Powerful red wines such as Plavac Mali, as wellas distinctive local white varieties.

Mediterranean, hot and dry

Red wines, coastal experiences and islands.

Slavonia & Danube

Graševina, Traminac, Frankovka

Continental, warm summers

Traditional wine cellars and classic wine styles.

Plešivica wine region vineyard terraces with traditional winery in the background

Featured Region

Plešivica: The Champagne of Croatia

Just 30 minutes from Zagreb

Located just 30 minutes from Zagreb, Plešivica is widely regarded as Croatia’s leading wine region for sparkling wine. The area is known for its limestone-rich soils, south-facing slopes and cool nights – conditions that closely resemble those of Champagne in France.

Here, small family-run wineries work with traditional methods, often using extended ageing on the lees. The result is elegant, mineral-driven sparkling wines that are frequently compared to far more expensive champagnes.

Why Plešivica?

Personal wine tastings in a calm, rural setting

High quality and internationally recognised wines

Ideal for both multi-day wine trips and day excursions

Close to Zagreb – yet far from mass tourism

Explore Plešivica Tours

Planning your Croatian wine tour

Frequently Asked Questions

The ideal time for wine travel in Croatia is from May to October. Spring offers lush vineyards and pleasant temperatures, while the harvest season in September–October adds a special atmosphere, with increased activity in the vineyards and wineries.

Yes. For wine travel in Plešivica, we strongly recommend booking at least 3–6 weeks in advance, especially during the high season. Wineries and accommodation fill up quickly, and advance planning is essential in order to combine wine tastings, accommodation and excursions in the best possible way.

Some of the most renowned indigenous varieties include Plavac Mali, Graševina, Malvazija Istarska, Pošip, Teran and Kraljevina. Many of these grapes are unique to Croatia and rarely found elsewhere in the world.

Wine tastings in Croatia are typically personal and relaxed experiences. You will usually taste 4–8 wines, often accompanied by local cheeses, cured meats and olive oil. Tastings are frequently hosted by the winemaker themselves.

Absolutely. We specialise in combining wine experiences with nature, culture and gastronomy, always tailored to your interests and travel pace.

Ready to Experience Croatian Wine Country?

Let us craft your perfect wine journey through Plešivica and beyond. From intimate tastings to full-day excursions, we tailor every experience to your preferences.

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