Discover Croatia’s Hidden Wine Gems
Nestled in northern Croatia, the Zagorje-Međimurje region offers a captivating blend of rolling hills, medieval castles, and exceptional wines. This lesser-known wine destination boasts a rich viticultural history and unique terroir, perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
Towns and Villages
Explore charming settlements that dot the picturesque landscape. Varaždin, known as “Little Vienna,” showcases stunning Baroque architecture and hosts the annual Špancirfest street festival.
Krapina is home to the fascinating Neanderthal Museum, while Čakovec in Međimurje offers a glimpse into the region’s history with its well-preserved Old Town.
Wine Producers
The region boasts numerous family-run wineries producing high-quality wines. Bolfan Vinski Vrh in Hrašćina is renowned for its organic wines and breathtaking hilltop views.
Štampar Winery in Sveti Urban specializes in aromatic white wines, particularly their award-winning Pušipel (Furmint). Cmrečnjak in Sveti Urban is known for its excellent Sauvignon Blanc and welcoming tasting room.
Accommodations
Stay in charming wine hotels that offer immersive experiences. The Vuglec Breg wine resort near Krapina provides cozy rooms, a restaurant, and wine tastings amidst vineyards.
For a luxurious retreat, book a room at Dvorac Gredič in Klanjec, a beautifully restored 16th-century castle with its own vineyard and wine cellar.
Dining
Savor local cuisine paired with regional wines at Grešna Gorica in Desinić, known for its traditional Zagorje dishes and extensive wine list. Međimurski Dvori in Lopatinec offers a farm-to-table experience with homemade specialties and wines from nearby producers.
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore the region’s wine culture at these notable establishments:
- Vinoteka Vinita in Varaždin: Offers an extensive selection of local wines and tasting events
- Klet Bolfan in Zagreb: Showcases wines from Bolfan Vinski Vrh and other regional producers
- Wine Bar Plavinka in Čakovec: Features a rotating selection of Međimurje wines and tapas-style snacks
Other Shops
Pick up local specialties and souvenirs:
- Varaždinski plac: Traditional farmers’ market offering fresh produce and artisanal products
- Krapinske Štrukle in Krapina: Specializes in the region’s famous pastry, štrukli
- Međimurska hiža in Čakovec: Sells locally-made handicrafts and gourmet products
Attractions
Beyond wineries, explore these cultural and natural highlights:
- Traškoćan Castle: A 13th-century fortress with stunning views and a museum
- Veliki Tabor Castle: Well-preserved medieval castle hosting cultural events
- Mura-Drava Regional Park: Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and cycling
Events
Plan your visit around these wine-focused and cultural events:
- Urbanovo Wine Festival (May): Celebrates Međimurje wines in Štampar Winery
- Špancirfest (August): Varaždin’s lively street festival featuring local wines and cuisine
- Days of Croatian Tourism (October): Showcases regional wines and gastronomy in Zagreb
Appellations
The Zagorje-Međimurje region is part of the larger Continental Croatia wine region. Key sub-regions include:
- Zagorje-Međimurje: Known for aromatic white wines
- Prigorje-Bilogora: Produces excellent Graševina and Chardonnay
- Plešivica: Renowned for sparkling wines and Portugieser
Grape Varieties
The Zagorje-Međimurje region boasts a diverse range of grape varieties. Graševina (Welschriesling) is the most widely planted white grape, known for its crisp, refreshing wines.
Other notable white varieties include:
- Chardonnay
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Pinot Gris (Sivi Pinot)
- Riesling
- Moslavac (Furmint)
Red grape varieties, though less common, include:
- Pinot Noir
- Frankovka (Blaufränkisch)
- Portugizac (Blauer Portugieser)
Main Wine Styles
The region is renowned for its light, crisp white wines. Graševina typically produces dry to off-dry wines with apple and citrus notes.
Other popular styles include:
- Sparkling wines (pjenušac)
- Aromatic whites from Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling
- Full-bodied Chardonnays
- Light-bodied reds from Pinot Noir and Portugizac
Food Specialties
The cuisine of Zagorje-Međimurje pairs perfectly with local wines. Štrukli, a traditional pastry filled with cheese, is a must-try dish.
Other regional specialties include:
- Zagorski Puran (Zagorje turkey)
- Međimurska gibanica (layered cake)
- Bučnica (pumpkin strudel)
- Kotlovina (meat and vegetable stew)
Drives & Walks
Explore the picturesque landscape through scenic drives and walks. The Zagorje Wine Road offers a delightful journey through vineyards and charming villages.
Notable routes include:
- Zelenjak Nature Park hike
- Trakošćan Castle forest trails
- Međimurje Wine Road drive
- Veliki Tabor Castle walk
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Lover’s Tour
Day 1: Start in Varaždin, visit Štrigova wineries, end in Čakovec.
Day 2: Explore Međimurje Wine Road, visit Sveti Urban, overnight in Sveti Martin na Muri.
Day 3: Drive through Zagorje, visit Kumrovec, end in Zagreb.
5-Day Cultural and Wine Experience
Day 1-2: Varaždin and surroundings, including Trakošćan Castle.
Day 3-4: Međimurje wine region, spa day in Sveti Martin na Muri.
Day 5: Krapina Neanderthal Museum, Veliki Tabor Castle, return to Zagreb.
Getting There & Around
The Zagorje-Međimurje region is easily accessible from Zagreb. Rent a car for the most flexibility in exploring wineries and rural areas.
- By car: 1-2 hours from Zagreb, depending on your destination
- By bus: Regular services connect major towns
- By train: Limited connections, mainly to Varaždin and Čakovec
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early fall offers the best weather for wine tours and outdoor activities. Visit during harvest season (September-October) for a unique wine experience.
- May-June: Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
- July-August: Warmest months, ideal for outdoor events
- September-October: Harvest festivals and wine-related activities
Sustainability Efforts
Many wineries in the region are embracing eco-friendly practices. Support sustainable tourism by choosing environmentally conscious producers and accommodations.
- Organic and biodynamic vineyards
- Energy-efficient winemaking facilities
- Local, farm-to-table restaurants
Language Tips
While English is 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
Expand your knowledge of Zagorje-Međimurje wines with these resources:
- Visit Međimurje – Official tourism website
- Zagorje Tourism – Regional tourism information
- Cro Gourmet – Croatian wine and food guide