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Set your taste buds for an adventure, with a tour of the wines of Croatia. In particularly the wineries of the wider Zadar Region. Croatia has the luxury of offering such an unusually diverse natural landscape, and because of this offers four main wine regions: Two coastal – Dalmatia and Istria; Two Continental: The Croatian table lands and Slavonia.
Once at O’live Residence, you can enjoy in the luxury of visiting some great and interesting local wineries. From a half day trip, to a full day adventure. But when it comes to wine, the story is part of the experience. So allow yourself the luxury of a quick crash course in wine history.
As O’live Residence is situated in Dalmatia, then lets focus on the Dalmatian wine story. In 2001 it was discovered that California black grape variety of Zinfandel has Croatian origins. Its genetically the same as ‘Crljenak Kaštelanski’, also called Tribidrag, which had dissapeared from local wineries. However the connection to this block buster American grape has inspired local winegrowers to plant Crljenak again.
Limestone is key in the Dalmatian region. Eroding limestone creates scrubby, rocky landscape called karst. Many of Dalmatia’s vineyards grow on karst or karst and a combination of other soils.
There are a number of grapes that grow in Croatia and nowhere else in the world. Such as Pošip and Debit. Red wines in Dalmatia are made generally from Plavac Mali, the regions most important black grape. Crljenak is one of the genetic parents of Plavac Mali. Other black grapes to look for in Dalmatia are Babić; Drnekuša and of course Crljenak Kaštelanski.
As mentioned before, we have the luxury of having a few great wineries not to far from O’live Residence. Be it a full day of a last minute decision, there are options to accommodate all your needs. For those wishing to stop off at a winery during a day of sightseeing or swiming, below are a list of wineries close enough for a half day trip:
Located in the Šibenik outskirty, Bibich Winery is one of the more premium wineries you will find. A fantastic place to visit, for brunch or lunch. It is also close to the Krka waterfalls, so it can be combined with a little sight seeing. Famous for the reds, a must to visit.
Google maps: https://g.page/bibichwinery?share
web location: Bibich winery – Croatian.wine
Not far from Bibich Winery, you’ll find a relatively new comer to the game. A family business, offers exception value and quality of wines. And also have their own Croatian Schnapps. Here you can find a great white from the local Debit grape.
Location: https://g.page/Ante_Sladic_Vino?share
Web: https://antesladicvino.hr/
We would recommend visiting both these wineries on the same day.
On the Zadar hinterland, there are three wineries worth visiting:
Famous for entertaining the princess of Denmark on her visit to Croatia. Family run business, producing wines for other 3 generations, great selection of wines (must try their sparkling wine), and a very nice property to spend some time at.
Google link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LdWwL1HZm9DTS5F29
Not too far from Skaulj winery, you will find the Vrsaljko winery. A small boutique winery, modern and famous for the merlot and syrah. All visits should be done by prior appointment.
Google link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gCLbYx66romcjmQm8
We would also recommend to make this a day trip, with lunch in between. There is a great place close to both wineries, with local cuisine. Appointment is necessary. Let us know if you need assistance.
We would advise having lunch at OPG Odzaković. Web link: https://goo.gl/maps/L9k7xD5E5cE1atfk8
On the North side of Zadar you can discover one of the oldest wineries in the region, Kraljevski Winery. In fact, it dates back to 1066. The winery has an amazing view, and is run by a monastery. Most of the work is done by hand, giving their wine their distinct feel and taste.
Found only 12km outside of Zadar. But be wary during the peak summer season the road to the winery can be very congested.
Pošip, Plavac Mali and Crljenak are some of the wines you will find at Kraljevski winery. For wine buffs, a must see.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/admgX41AtL5nnDQ86
Wanting something a little closer to O’live Residence? There are two great places to visit, and not too far from each other.
established in 2006, the winery Folić is a great place to spend a few hours in their wine tasting room. Catering for up to 12 people at a time, they offer three types of experiences. Apart from wine, they also offer their own schnapps. A must try, schnapps from figs. As room in the win tasting room is limited, reserving is recommended.
Web link: Vina i Likeri Fiolić (popij.me)
Locaton: https://goo.gl/maps/pMPEGLJiUEn7FDrNA
Established in 2012, Degarra winery is a new comer to the scene. However in a short time they have created some fantastic wines. Not too far from O’live Residence, you’ll find it a great half day trip visiting their wine tasting room and experiencing their showcase.
Expect to sample some fine Cabernet; Merlot; Marastina; Plavin and Syrah. Apart from the win, you can also enjoy an assortment of local cheese olive oil and fish.
Web: Degarra – Fine Dalmatian Wines of Croatia
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AB8gnQuXrG75QRLAA
Let us know if you need assistance.
Boškinac Winery
Keen for an adventure and a day trip. Then you might wish to take a day trip to one of the most luxurious wineries in the Zadar region. Situated on the island of Pag, accessible by car, and a 60min drive from O’live Residence, you will find the Boškinac family hotel and winery.
Not your classical winery, with a boutique family run hotel that is situated in the middle of the winery. Excellent food, and wine to match. A more premium experience to the Zadar wine road, but one worth investing in.
Pag itself is also famous for its cheeses. So take some time out to visit one fo the more reputable cheese manufacturers such as Gligora, or take some time out swimming at the lovely bech of Šimuni.
All in all, no matter your preference or aptitude in wines, the Zadar region has something for all. For the wine buffs or those who need no reason to try wine!
Feel free to ask us more about the various wineries.
