Wine in Croatia: Wineries Coming to the 2026 VIWF
Croatia is one of Europe’s most exciting under-the-radar wine countries—where coastal vineyards meet mountain foothills, and indigenous grapes tell a story that stretches back more than 2,000 years. If you are heading to the the Vancouver International Wine Festival this year, you are in luck as you can taste wines from seven different Croatian Wineries represented by Tomislav Dušević of Domovina Wines. In preparation we thought we’d give you a little prelimary run through on wine in croatia, or a refresher for those who may be more wine savvy so you can arrive at the tasting room ready to get the most from these tables.
Click for my Vita Magazine Guide to the best events at the 2026 VIWF
A Brief History of Croatian Wine
Winemaking on Croatia’s Adriatic coast dates to ancient times, with early vineyard culture shaped by Greek settlers and later expanded under Roman rule. Over centuries, local grapes and traditional practices evolved across islands, peninsulas, and inland valleys.
In the modern era, Croatia has moved steadily from volume-focused production toward quality-driven, site-specific wines—especially in the last few decades as family wineries have invested in vineyard health, cleaner cellar work, and indigenous varieties.
Croatia’s Main Wine Regions
Istria
Istria: Often compared to Tuscany for its rolling hills and gastronomy, Istria is Croatia’s flagship for fresh, mineral whites and structured reds. Its “Terra Rossa” (red soil) and limestone plateaus produce wines with incredible salinity and character. Known for: Malvazija Istarska, Teran.
Dalmatia
Stretching along the rugged Adriatic coast, Dalmatian vineyards often cling to steep, rocky slopes. The wines are bold and sun-drenched, shaped by extreme heat and the cooling influence of the “Bura” wind. Known for: Plavac Mali, Pošip, Grk, Tribidrag (Crljenak Kaštelanski)
Continental Croatia
Slavonia
Slavonia is the historic heartland of continental Croatian wine and one of the country’s most influential regions. Beyond the vineyard, it is internationally renowned for its vast oak forests, which supply the large-format barrels used by many of Europe’s top winemakers. The wines here tend to be fresh, structured, and food-friendly, with a strong emphasis on whites that retain bright acidity and clarity. Known for: Graševina, Frankovka (Blaufränkisch)
The Uplands (Hrvatsko Zagorje & Central Croatia)
The upland vineyards north and west of Zagreb bring a cooler climate and rolling hills that are particularly well-suited to aromatic whites and lighter-bodied reds. These wines often show precision, restraint, and an Old World elegance. Pinot Noir is gaining attention here, alongside crisp whites that shine for their balance rather than power. Known for: Graševina, Pinot Noir, Frankovka
The Main Croatian Grape Varieties to Know
- Malvazija Istarska – Dry, bright white with citrus, stone fruit, almond, and Mediterranean herb notes.
- Plavac Mali – Dalmatia’s signature red: dark fruit, firm tannin, and a warm, coastal intensity.
- Teran – High-acid Istrian red often showing sour cherry, spice, and earthy depth.
- Pošip – Textured white with stone fruit, salinity, and strong food-pairing potential.
- Grk – Rare island white that can be savory, structured, and very distinctive.
- Tribidrag / Crljenak Kaštelanski – The original genetic source linked to what the world knows as Zinfandel.
Current Practices: What’s Driving Croatian Wine Right Now
Croatia’s most compelling producers are leaning into a modern, quality-first approach while keeping tradition in view:
- Indigenous varieties (and old vines) taking center stage.
- Single-vineyard bottlings and clearer regional identity.
- Organic and sustainable farming where conditions allow.
- Gentler extraction for fresher reds and better balance.
- Neutral oak, concrete, and low-intervention options to let terroir speak.
Wineries Coming to the Vancouver International Wine Festival From Croatia
Here are seven producers that you’ll be able to taste in March at the VIWF.
Coronica Winery (Istria)
A benchmark Istrian producer known for terroir-driven expressions of Malvazija Istarska and Teran. Expect balance, precision, and a clear sense of place. More on Coronica from wine writer Paul Balke.
Fakin Winery (Istria)
One of the region’s most dynamic modern estates, with a strong reputation for clean, confident wines that help define contemporary Istria.
Kiridžija Winery (Pelješac)
A small family producer rooted in the Pelješac Peninsula, focusing on Plavac Mali in a classic Dalmatian style—structured and concentrated.
Korta Katarina Winery (Pelješac)
A polished, hospitality-forward estate producing premium Dalmatian wines, including refined takes on coastal whites and deeper reds.
Krolo Winery (Kaštela / Dalmatia)
A family-run winery working with local varieties such as Pošip and Crljenak, bridging regional tradition with a modern feel.
Stina Winery (Brač Island)
Named for the island’s stone (stina), this producer captures Brač’s sunny, rocky character through crisp whites and bold island reds.
Vuina Winery (Kaštel Štafilić / Dalmatia)
A deeply regional producer championing local Dalmatian expressions, with a focus on preserving heritage grapes tied to the Kaštela area.
How to Start Exploring Croatian Wine
- If you love Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, start with Malvazija Istarska.
- If you like bold reds (think Syrah or Southern Rhône), try Plavac Mali.
- If you want a serious food white, look for Pošip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important wine regions in Croatia?
The most widely discussed regions are Istria, Dalmatia, and Continental Croatia, each with distinct climates, soils, and signature grapes.
What are Croatia’s signature grape varieties?
Key Croatian grapes include Malvazija Istarska, Plavac Mali, Teran, Pošip, Grk, and Tribidrag/Crljenak.
Is Croatian wine good value?
Often, yes—especially when you compare quality to similarly styled wines from more famous regions. Prices vary widely by producer, region, and rarity.
