Croatian wine

Croatian wine refers to the viticulture in Croatia, a country located in Central Europe and the Mediterranean. The country's wine production is divided into continental (Continental Croatia) and coastal (Croatian Littoral) regions, each with its unique wine varieties and production methods.

History

The history of Croatian wine dates back to the ancient Greek settlers, who arrived on the Croatian coast in the 5th century BC. The Greeks introduced winemaking to the locals, and the tradition was continued by the Romans after they conquered the area. The Middle Ages saw the establishment of many monasteries, which played a significant role in the development of wine production.

Wine Regions

Croatia's wine regions are primarily split between the continental and coastal areas. The continental region, located inland, is known for its crisp white wines, particularly those made from the Graševina grape. The coastal region, on the other hand, is famous for its full-bodied reds and whites, with notable varieties including Plavac Mali and Pošip.

Continental Croatia

Continental Croatia includes the regions of Slavonia, Zagorje-Međimurje, and Central Croatia. The region is known for its white wines, particularly those made from the Graševina grape. Other notable varieties include Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Croatian Littoral

The Croatian Littoral includes the regions of Istria and Dalmatia. The region is known for its red wines, particularly those made from the Plavac Mali grape. Other notable varieties include Teran, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Wine Production

Croatian wine production is characterized by traditional methods, with many winemakers still using old-world techniques. The country's diverse climate and terrain allow for a wide range of wine styles, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.

Wine Varieties

Croatia is home to an impressive array of indigenous grape varieties, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world. These include the white Graševina and the red Plavac Mali, among others.

See Also

• List of wine-producing regions
• Croatian cuisine