Discover Croatia’s Hidden Wine Gems
The Croatian Uplands offer a unique wine experience away from the coastal regions. This area, known for its rolling hills and continental climate, produces some of Croatia’s most distinctive wines.
Towns and Villages
The region encompasses several charming towns and villages, each with its own wine heritage. Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, serves as an excellent base for exploring the area.
- Samobor: Known for its crystal production and bermet, a local aromatic wine
- Jastrebarsko: Home to numerous family-run wineries and vineyards
- Plešivica: A picturesque wine road with stunning views and excellent sparkling wines
Wine Producers
The Croatian Uplands boast a mix of traditional family wineries and modern producers. Some standout wineries include:
- Korak Winery: Renowned for their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
- Tomac Winery: Pioneers in sparkling wine production using traditional methods
- Šember Winery: Specializing in indigenous grape varieties like Plavec žuti
Many wineries offer tours and tastings, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Accommodations
The region offers various lodging options, from city hotels to countryside guesthouses. Consider these wine-centric stays:
- Hotel Plešivica: Located in the heart of wine country with vineyard views
- Korak Winery Guesthouse: Immerse yourself in winery life with on-site accommodation
- Esplanade Zagreb Hotel: Luxury option in Zagreb with an extensive wine list
Dining
Croatian Uplands cuisine pairs perfectly with local wines. Try these wine-friendly restaurants:
- Noel (Zagreb): Michelin-starred restaurant with an impressive wine cellar
- Vinodol (Zagreb): Traditional Croatian dishes with a focus on local wines
- Klet Kozjak (Sveti Ivan Zelina): Rustic tavern offering homemade specialties and wines
Many restaurants feature local wines, so don’t hesitate to ask for pairing recommendations.
Wine Shops & Bars
The Croatian Uplands offer several options for wine enthusiasts to explore local vintages:
- Bornstein Wine Bar (Zagreb): Features an extensive selection of Croatian wines
- Vinoteka Vintesa (Zagreb): Specializes in boutique Croatian wines
- Wine Bar Basement (Zagreb): Cozy spot with knowledgeable staff and regular tastings
Many wineries have on-site shops where you can purchase bottles directly.
Other Shops
While exploring the region, look out for these local specialties:
- Samobor Crystal: Visit workshops in Samobor to see craftsmen at work
- Gingerbread Hearts: Traditional souvenir found in Zagreb’s markets
- Truffle Products: Available in gourmet shops throughout the region
Attractions
Beyond wine, the Croatian Uplands offer diverse attractions:
- Zagreb Cathedral: Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the capital
- Medvedgrad Castle: Medieval fortress overlooking Zagreb
- Samobor Old Town: Well-preserved historic center with charming architecture
Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the region’s rich history and culture.
Events
Plan your visit around these wine-centric events:
- VINOcom (November, Zagreb): Croatia’s largest wine and culinary exhibition
- Plešivica Wine Road Days (September): Wineries open their doors for tastings and tours
- Samobor Wine Festival (March): Showcases local wines and traditional foods
Book accommodations early if visiting during these popular events.
Appellations
The Croatian Uplands encompass several wine appellations:
- Plešivica: Known for sparkling wines and aromatic white varieties
- Prigorje-Bilogora: Home to indigenous grape varieties like Škrlet
- Zagorje-Međimurje: Produces excellent Riesling and Pinot Noir
Each appellation offers unique terroir, influencing the character of its wines.
Grape Varieties
The Croatian Uplands boast a diverse range of grape varieties, both indigenous and international. Graševina (also known as Welschriesling) is the most widely planted white grape, producing crisp, aromatic wines.
Other notable white varieties include:
- Škrlet: A rare, indigenous variety known for its delicate floral notes
- Chardonnay: Increasingly popular, often crafted in both oaked and unoaked styles
- Sauvignon Blanc: Thrives in the cooler climate, producing vibrant, herbaceous wines
For red wines, look out for:
- Frankovka (Blaufränkisch): Produces medium-bodied reds with spicy characteristics
- Portugizac: A light, fruity red often released as a young wine
- Pinot Noir: Gaining popularity, especially in cooler sub-regions
Main Wine Styles
The Croatian Uplands are renowned for their fresh, aromatic white wines. Graševina leads the pack, offering dry to off-dry styles with crisp acidity and stone fruit flavors.
Sparkling wines are gaining traction, particularly those made using the traditional method. Look for bubbly crafted from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blends.
Red wines tend to be medium-bodied and fruit-forward. Frankovka produces spicy reds with good aging potential, while Portugizac offers light, easy-drinking options perfect for casual sipping.
Food Specialties
The Croatian Uplands’ cuisine pairs perfectly with local wines. Štrukli, a traditional pastry filled with cheese and cream, is a must-try regional specialty.
Other local dishes include:
- Purica s mlincima: Roast turkey with flatbread
- Zagorski štrukli: A savory or sweet pastry from the Zagorje region
- Kotlovina: A mixed grill dish often enjoyed at social gatherings
Don’t miss the opportunity to try local cheeses, especially the aged sheep’s milk cheese from Pag island, which pairs beautifully with the region’s white wines.
Drives & Walks
The Croatian Uplands offer scenic drives and walks through picturesque wine country. The Plešivica Wine Road is a popular route, winding through rolling hills and charming villages.
For nature lovers, consider these options:
- Medvednica Nature Park: Offers hiking trails with panoramic views of Zagreb
- Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje Nature Park: Features diverse landscapes and numerous hiking paths
- Trakošćan Castle Walk: A scenic stroll around the castle’s lake and surrounding forest
Itineraries
A 3-day wine-focused itinerary in the Croatian Uplands might include:
Day 1: Zagreb and Surroundings
- Morning: Explore Zagreb’s farmers’ market and sample local wines
- Afternoon: Visit nearby wineries in Plešivica, such as Tomac or Korak
- Evening: Dinner at a traditional konoba in Zagreb, pairing local dishes with regional wines
Day 2: Zagorje Region
- Morning: Visit Trakošćan Castle and its surrounding vineyards
- Afternoon: Wine tasting at family-owned wineries like Bodren or Vuglec Breg
- Evening: Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at a local agritourism
Day 3: Moslavina and Kutjevo
- Morning: Explore the Lonjsko Polje Nature Park
- Afternoon: Visit the historic Kutjevo cellar and taste their renowned Graševina
- Evening: Farewell dinner at a wine-focused restaurant in Zagreb
Getting There & Around
Zagreb Airport serves as the main gateway to the Croatian Uplands. From there, renting a car is the best option for exploring the region’s wineries.
Public transportation options include:
- Trains: Connect Zagreb to larger towns like Varaždin
- Buses: More extensive network, reaching smaller villages
- Organized wine tours: Convenient for visiting multiple wineries without driving
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early fall offers the most pleasant weather for wine touring. September and October are ideal for experiencing the grape harvest festivities.
Key seasonal highlights:
- Spring: Budding vines and vibrant landscapes
- Summer: Outdoor festivals and alfresco dining
- Fall: Harvest activities and autumn foliage
- Winter: Cozy wine tastings and holiday markets
Sustainability Efforts
Many Croatian Uplands wineries are embracing eco-friendly practices. Look for producers using organic or biodynamic methods.
Sustainable initiatives include:
- Solar-powered wineries
- Water conservation techniques
- Local and seasonal sourcing for winery restaurants
Language Tips
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Croatian wine terms can enhance your experience:
- Vino = Wine
- Bijelo vino = White wine
- Crno vino = Red wine
- Na zdravlje = Cheers
- Vinarija = Winery
Further Resources
For more information on Croatian Uplands wines and travel, check out these resources:
- Croatia Wine Tours: Offers guided wine experiences
- Vina Croatia: Official site for Croatian wines
- Zagreb Tourist Board: Information on the capital and surrounding areas
