While Croatia is famous for its stunning coastline and historic cities, it is also home to some of Europe’s best wineries, including many renowned Croatian wineries. With over 2,500 years of winemaking history, Croatia produces unique indigenous wines that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
From the rolling hills of Istria, often called the “Tuscany of Croatia,” to the sun-soaked vineyards of Dalmatia, this guide will take you through the best wineries, must-try wines, and top wine tours in Croatia, featuring some of the finest Croatian wineries.
1. Best Wine Regions in Croatia
Exploring Croatian Wineries
Istria – The Land of Malvazija & Truffles
Istria is Croatia’s most famous wine region, often compared to Tuscany for its picturesque vineyards, medieval hilltop towns, and gourmet food scene.
- Signature wines: Malvazija Istarska (crisp white wine) & Teran (earthy red wine).
- Best wineries:
- Kozlović Winery – A modern winery with stunning vineyard views.
- Roxanich – Known for its long-aged, natural wines.
- Meneghetti Winery – Offers a luxury wine and dining experience.
- Best wine experience: Pair a wine tour with an Istrian truffle hunting excursion!
Dalmatia – Home of Croatia’s Most Famous Red Wine
Dalmatia is where you’ll find Plavac Mali, the bold red wine that is a cousin of Zinfandel.
- Signature wines: Plavac Mali (full-bodied red) & Pošip (aromatic white).
- Best wineries:
- Stina Winery (Brač Island) – A gorgeous seaside winery with Plavac Mali tastings.
- Bibich Winery (Skradin) – Featured on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations.”
- Grgić Winery (Pelješac Peninsula) – Owned by the Croatian-American winemaker who made Napa Valley famous.
- Best wine experience: A Phttps://peljesacwinetours.com/elješac Peninsula wine tour, where you can taste red wines with a sea view!
Slavonia & the Danube – Croatia’s White Wine Paradise
Less visited than the coast, Slavonia is home to world-class white wines.
- Signature wines: Graševina (Croatia’s most planted grape) & Traminac (floral white wine).
- Best wineries:
- Kutjevo Winery – One of the oldest wineries in Croatia, dating back to 1232.
- Iločki Podrumi (Ilok) – The winery that supplied wines for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.
- Belje Winery – Stunning Danube views and award-winning whites.
- Best wine experience: Visit during harvest season (September-October) for the full vineyard experience!
2. Best Wine Tours in Croatia (2025 Edition)
Pelješac Wine Road (Dalmatia)
- A self-guided or guided tour of the Pelješac Peninsula, Croatia’s top red wine region.
- Stop at Grgić Winery, Matuško Winery, and Saints Hills Winery for tastings.
- Enjoy fresh oysters in Mali Ston between tastings.
Istrian Wine & Truffle Tour
- Combine wine tasting with Istria’s famous truffle dishes.
- Visit Kozlović, Kabola, and Roxanich wineries.
- Includes a truffle-hunting excursion in Motovun forests.
Zagreb & Plešivica Sparkling Wine Tour
- A short trip from Zagreb, Plešivica is known as “Croatia’s Champagne region.”
- Visit Tomac Winery and Korak Winery for sparkling wines and Pinot Noir.
- Perfect for wine lovers wanting a day trip from Zagreb!
3. Must-Try Croatian Wines
Malvazija Istarska – A crisp, citrusy white wine from Istria.
Plavac Mali – A rich, powerful red wine from Dalmatia.
Graševina – A fruity, floral white wine from Slavonia.
Pošip – A full-bodied, aromatic white from Dalmatian islands.
Teran – A bold, earthy red from Istria.
4. Wine Tasting Etiquette & Tips in Croatia
- Book in advance: Many wineries require reservations, especially in peak season.
- Bring cash: Some smaller wineries don’t accept credit cards.
- Spit if necessary: If you’re visiting multiple wineries, use the spittoons provided.
- Ask questions: Winemakers love to share their knowledge—don’t be shy!
- Buy a bottle: It’s the best souvenir you can take home!
Sip Your Way Through Croatia!
Croatia’s wine scene is diverse, historic, and absolutely worth exploring. Whether you’re enjoying a Plavac Mali on the Dalmatian coast, sipping a Malvazija in Istria, or tasting a Graševina in Slavonia, there’s a wine for everyone!
Plan your Croatian wine adventure now and discover the country’s best wineries!
