Top 35 Croatian White Wines

Istarska malvazija is a native Croatian white grape variety that is predominantly grown in Istria, where it is mostly used in the production of varietals. These food-friendly wines are typically fresh and fruity, with mineral notes and aromas of green apple, acacia, and apricots. Although most varieties are enjoyed young, some producers mature it for extended periods in oak, acacia barrels, or amphorae to produce slightly different expressions. Malvazija wines pair well with white fish, other types of seafood, as well as with various dishes prepared with the white Istrian truffle. Apart from Istria, the grape is also grown in some parts of Slovenia and the Italian region Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Expand

Pošip is a native Croatian grape which was discovered by chance on the island of Korčula. Although it is cultivated in other Dalmatian regions, the grape is still extensively grown on Korčula, and it achieves the best results in the vineyards located around the villages Smokvica and Čara. The best versions of varietal Pošip will be full-bodied and harmonious with a perfect balance of alcohol and acidity. They are usually golden yellow with fruity aromas of apricots, almonds, Mediterranean herbs, figs, and citrus fruit. Pošip wines are a perfect match to most Dalmatian dishes, especially fish and shellfish, while oak-aged version can pair well with octopus or veal. It can also go well with cheese and cured meat. Pošip was the first white grape from Croatia with a protected geographical origin.Expand

Muškat momjanski is a wine of protected origin that is produced in the vicinity of Momjan in Istria. The wines are made from a Muscat variety, precisely a variety of Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains. The unique combination of microclimate and soil around Momjan proved to be especially suitable for the cultivation of Muscat. It is believed that the grape was brought from Italy in the 1200s, and throughout history, it adapted and attained its distinctive character. The wines made in the region are rich an aromatic and may range from pale yellow to golden. The grape is used in the production of floral and fruity dry wines and more intense dessert wines, which usually display aromas of raisins, dry figs, and honey. These wines can also be labeled as archive wines (arhivsko vino) if they were aged for a minimum of five years. Muškat momjanski wines are best served well-chilled. They can be enjoyed as an aperitif, and they pair well with fruit desserts, especially tarts, puddings, and strudels. Expand

Grk or Grk bijeli is a native Croatian grape from the island of Korčula that is mostly used in the production of dry white wines. The grape rarely gives high yield, and it is mainly grown on sandy soils that surround the city of Lumbarda. Since the name Grk translates as Greek, it was long assumed that the grape had origins in Greece, but recent studies contradict this idea and state Crljenak kaštelanski as the only close relative to this rare and unique Croatian grape. Also, the word grk can be roughly translated as bitter—subtle tartness is a common characteristic found in Grk wines. Most Grk wines are mineral and aromatic, with herbal nuances and a good balance of acidity and sugars. Interestingly, Grk grape has only female functioning parts—meaning that it needs to be planted along with other grape varieties. In Lumbarda, it is mostly grown together with Plavac mali. Grk wines pair naturally with white fish and shellfish, but they can also be an excellent match to risottos, pasta dishes, and aged cheese. Expand

Žlahtina is a native Croatian grape variety that is almost exclusively grown on the island of Krk, predominantly around Vrbnik. The grape is used in the production of light and refreshing white wines that are meant to be enjoyed young. They usually display floral and citrus aromas that are complemented by mineral notes and well-balanced acidity. Žlahtina goes exceptionally well with sheep milk cheese, fish and seafood dishes, as well as white meat and lamb. The name žlahtina stems from the Slavic word žlahten which translates as precious or noble, possibly suggesting the importance of the grape in the ancient times.Expand

Škrlet is regarded as an indigenous Croatian white grape. Although its origin is still unknown, this late-ripening grape was first mentioned in writing in 1856. It is primarily grown in Pokuplje and Moslavina and gives best results on southern slopes that receive enough sunshine throughout the year. Škrlet is commonly made into fresh and crisp young wine, characterized by its light yellow color with typical green hues. It usually displays floral and fruity notes of green apples, pears, and yellow plums, which complement its bright acidity. The wine pairs well with light dishes such as freshwater fish, pasta, or poultry-based main courses. Interestingly, the name of the grape stems from the German word scharlach (scarlet fever), due to the typical red dots that occasionally appear on the vine.Expand

Vugava is a native Croatian grape that hails from a small island of Vis. The variety is exclusively cultivated on the island where and ripens early in the warm Mediterranean climate and thrives on the terraced terroir around Komiža. Vugava-based wines are golden-yellow, fresh, and aromatic. The acidity is typically low, the alcohol content high, and the wines will generally have high sugar content. The aroma is reminiscent of ripe fruit, apricots, peaches, and honey, sometimes with citrus and herbal notes. Vugava has a long history on the island, and it is believed that it was brought by ancient Greeks. Apart from varietals and white blends, the grape was also used in prošek—Dalmatian dessert wine made with dry berries. Vugava was rarely used in bulk wines. Though rare, it was always known as a high-quality, premium Croatian grape. Vugava wines are best paired with local cuisine. They would work well with seafood, including shellfish and white fish, but it also pairs well with poultry, salads, fresh fruit, and sheep or goat cheese.Expand

Bogdanuša is a white grape variety that is indigenous to Hvar. Although it is mostly used to produce varietal wines, it is occasionally incorporated into various local blends. Varietal versions are usually pleasant, food-friendly, and light drinking wines characterized by their herbal and floral notes, bright acidity, and freshness. The wine is best paired with fish-based main courses or light risottos. The name of the grape is roughly translated as God-given or God-send, allegedly because the wine used to be served at religious ceremonies.Expand

Pušipel or Moslavac is a white grape variety cultivated in the northernmost Croatian region of Međimurje. It is an international grape also found in Hungarian Tokaji (Furmint), Slovenia(Šipon), and Austria (Mosler). The grape is mainly used for dry white wines, though it can also produce high-quality dessert and sparkling styles. Dry wines made from Pušipel are pale yellow, mineral, fresh, light, and easy-drinking. They typically have fruity and citrusy notes reminiscent of green apples, lemon, and lime. The acidity is moderate or high, while the alcohol content is generally low. These wines can work well with a variety of dishes. They can be paired with light appetizers and snacks or with heavier regional specialties. The first written mention of Pušipel dates to the first half of the 19th century. It was usually referred to as Moslavec or Šipon, and its full potential was mainly neglected. The grape rose to prominence with a branding strategy that appeared in the 2000s. Modern winemakers used the best vines, chose the name Pušipel, and improved the winemaking techniques to rebrand Pušipel as a flagship Međimurje grape that can produce excellent quality wines. Expand

Malvasia from Dubrovnik is not a native Croatian variety. Although the grape has been cultivated in the area for over 600 years, research has shown that it is identical to the Italian Malvasia di Lipari. It is believed that it originated from Greece, and it then spread to several Mediterranean countries, including Croatia, Italy, and Spain. It is a rare, low-yield grape that was saved from extinction. Only a handful of producers, mainly located around Dubrovnik and Konavle, still cultivate and promote this exceptional grape. The wines have an appealing golden yellow color. They are incredibly aromatic, displaying a combination of stone fruit and floral aromas, often with citrus hints and honeyed nuance. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and round but remains fresh and lively because of good acidity. It pairs best with seafood or light poultry dishes. The grape is also made into a dessert wine, and it is used in Prošek, sweet dessert wine made from dry berries. Expand

Bire is a family-owned winery located in the village of Lumbarda on the island of Korčula in southern Dalmatia, an area well known for the cultivation of the indigenous Grk grape variety. The winery is run by the Milina-Bire family, who continue a long tradition of viticulture in this part of the island and focus on preserving local grape varieties.

The vineyards are situated on the distinctive sandy soils of Lumbarda, close to the sea, which create unique conditions for growing Grk, one of the rarest Croatian grape varieties. This variety forms the core of the winery’s production and represents an important part of the region’s wine identity.

In addition to Grk, the winery also produces wines from varieties such as Plavac Mali as well as rosé wines. The grapes come from the family’s own vineyards, allowing careful control of quality and expression of the local terroir.

Today, Bire is considered one of the recognizable wine producers from Lumbarda and an important representative of the wine tradition of the island of Korčula.Expand

Benvenuti Winery is nestled in the Istrian village of Kaldir, near Motovun, where winemaking is not just a craft but a way of life. For generations, the Benvenuti family has cultivated vines on steep hillsides between 250 and 400 meters above sea level, preserving the authenticity of native varieties such as Istrian Malvazija, Teran, and Muscat. Their philosophy is rooted in respect for the terroir and natural conditions, especially the renowned San Salvatore site, where the unique combination of soil and microclimate creates wines of remarkable freshness, minerality, and character.

By blending tradition with modern methods, they craft wines that faithfully reflect the essence of Motovun’s hillsides. The story began in 1946, when Petar Benvenuti planted the first family vineyards. Today, under the guidance of Livio, Albert, and Nikola Benvenuti, the winery continues to nurture this legacy, producing wines recognized and awarded across the globe. From the refreshing Malvazija and powerful Teran to prestigious labels such as Anno Domini and Santa Elisabetta, every Benvenuti wine carries the hallmark of passion, dedication, and Istrian authenticity.Expand

Zure is a family-owned winery located in the village of Lumbarda on the island of Korčula in southern Dalmatia, one of the most recognized wine-growing areas of this part of Croatia. The winery is run by the Batistić-Zure family, who began professional wine production in 1996 while continuing a long-standing family tradition of viticulture.

The vineyards are situated close to the sea on the characteristic sandy soils of Lumbarda, which are particularly suitable for cultivating the indigenous Grk grape variety, one of the rarest and most distinctive Croatian wine grapes. This variety forms the core of the winery’s production and represents an important part of the local wine identity.

In addition to Grk, the winery also produces wines from varieties such as Pošip and Plavac Mali. The grapes are sourced exclusively from the family’s own vineyards, allowing full control over quality and the expression of the local terroir.

Today, Zure is considered one of the recognizable producers from the Lumbarda area, known for wines that reflect the Mediterranean character of the island of Korčula.Expand

Kozlović is a family-owned winery located in the village of Momjan in north-western Istria, near the town of Buje, one of the most renowned wine-growing areas in Croatia. The winemaking tradition of the Kozlović family dates back to 1904, when Antonio Kozlović planted the first vineyards on sites that still form the core of the estate today.

The winery is currently run by the fourth generation of the family, which has significantly modernized production while maintaining a strong focus on quality and the expression of local grape varieties. The vineyards are situated on the hills above the Vale valley, where soils composed of marl, clay and limestone contribute to the wines’ distinctive mineral character and clear sense of terroir.

Kozlović is particularly known for wines made from indigenous varieties such as Malvazija Istarska and Muscat Momjanski, while also producing red wines from Teran and several international grape varieties. In 2012 the family built a modern winery designed to follow the natural slope of the terrain, enabling gravity-flow vinification and a minimal-intervention approach to winemaking.

Over the past decades, Kozlović has become one of the leading representatives of contemporary Istrian winemaking, with wines that regularly receive recognition at international competitions and reflect the distinctive identity of the Istrian terroir.Expand

Casa Boschi is a small family-run winery located in the village of Lumbarda on the island of Korčula in southern Dalmatia, an area known for its long tradition of viticulture and distinctive Mediterranean terroir. The winery focuses on producing wines from indigenous Dalmatian grape varieties typical of the island, with particular emphasis on Grk and Pošip, as well as other local varieties such as Rukatac (Maraština) and Plavac Mali.

The vineyards are situated close to the sea on sandy and rocky soils, conditions that contribute to the freshness and mineral character of the wines. Production is relatively small and aimed at preserving the authentic expression of the grape varieties and the local wine style.

Traditional winemaking practices are combined with modern enological techniques to highlight the natural qualities of the fruit. The white wines are generally characterized by aromas of citrus, stone fruit, and Mediterranean herbs, often accompanied by a subtle saline note typical of coastal vineyards.

Red wines, usually made from Plavac Mali, tend to show a fuller structure with notes of ripe fruit and spice. Casa Boschi is part of the contemporary wine scene of Korčula, where small wineries play an important role in maintaining local grape varieties and regional wine heritage.

In addition to wine production, the winery also participates in the island’s wine tourism offer, welcoming visitors for tastings and presenting the wines of this Dalmatian region.Expand

Saints Hills Winery is a family-run boutique project that combines authentic Croatian grape varieties, exceptional terroir, and minimalist aesthetics, with a deep respect for nature and winemaking tradition. Founded by Geoff Ernest Tolj and Ivana Tolj, the winery is guided by a clear vision: to create wines that faithfully express the character of indigenous varieties such as Plavac Mali, Malvasia Istriana and Pošip. The vineyards are named after saints and family members.

Sv. Lucija produces powerful red wines rich in aromas of cherry, tobacco, smoke, and Mediterranean herbs.

Sv. Roko offers well-balanced wines with pronounced fruitiness and freshness, partially aged in concrete and barrique barrels.

Sv. Ante yields complex white wines with citrus-mineral character and notes of white flowers and honey, matured in a combination of concrete and wood vessels. Visitors can enjoy two authentic wine experiences: Vinaria on the Pelješac Peninsula - a restored stone house transformed into a welcoming tasting room, wine shop, and guest reception area; and Cantina in Istria - a winery, restaurant, and accommodation complex located in the heart of the Sv.

Ante vineyard. With over 15 years on the market, Saints Hills Winery remains dedicated to the philosophy of the slow wine movement, crafting wines that reflect local identity, tradition, and the spirit of Mediterranean life. Each bottle from their cellar tells a story of the land, the microclimate, and the passion behind the winemaking.Expand

Saints Hills is a Croatian boutique winery founded by Ernest Tolj with the idea of presenting the potential of different Croatian wine regions through a modern approach to winemaking. The winery works with vineyards in several locations, primarily on the Pelješac Peninsula in the Dingač appellation, in the Komarna region of southern Dalmatia, and in Radovani in Istria.

This approach allows the production of wines that reflect the character of different terroirs as well as the diversity of indigenous and international grape varieties. Particular attention is given to the Plavac Mali variety, the most important red grape of Dalmatia, while white wines are also produced from varieties such as Pošip and Malvazija Istarska.

The vineyards on Pelješac are located on steep, sun-exposed slopes above the sea, where most vineyard work must be done by hand due to the demanding terrain. In the cellar, traditional viticultural practices are combined with modern winemaking techniques in order to preserve the character of the grapes and the terroir.

Today, Saints Hills is considered one of the recognizable contemporary Croatian wineries, known for wines that highlight regional identity and the distinct style of different vineyard areas.Expand

Iločki Podrumi is one of the oldest and most prominent wineries in Croatia, located in the town of Ilok in the Srijem wine region along the banks of the Danube River. The tradition of viticulture in this area dates back more than two thousand years to Roman times, while the historic wine cellars beneath the Ilok castle were established in the 15th century.

Today the winery manages extensive vineyards on notable sites such as Principovac and Vukovo, where loess soils, gentle slopes and the moderating influence of the Danube create favorable conditions for growing high-quality grapes. The winery cultivates several varieties, with Traminer (Traminac) considered its flagship grape, alongside Graševina, Chardonnay, Frankovka and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Iločki Podrumi produces several million liters of wine annually and ranks among the largest wine producers in Croatia. Its wines have received numerous international recognitions, and the winery’s Traminac holds particular historical significance, as a wine from Ilok was served at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

Combining centuries-old cellar tradition with modern production and the distinctive Danube terroir, Iločki Podrumi represents an important pillar of Croatian wine heritage.Expand

Cattunar is a family-owned winery located in the village of Nova Vas near Brtonigla in northwestern Istria, Croatia. The modern winery was established in the 1980s by Franco Cattunar, who was among the pioneers of private winemaking in the region.

Over time the estate expanded its vineyards and today cultivates around 50 hectares of vines in western Istria. A distinctive feature of the winery is that its vineyards are planted on all four characteristic Istrian soil types – red, white, grey and black – which became the basis of the winery’s “4 Terre” project exploring the influence of different soils on wine expression.

The production focuses primarily on indigenous grape varieties such as Malvazija Istarska, Teran and Muscat, alongside international varieties including Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. By combining modern winemaking techniques with a strong focus on terroir, Cattunar has developed a reputation as a notable producer within the contemporary Istrian wine scene.Expand

Damjanić is a family-owned winery located in the village of Fuškulin, between the town of Poreč and the Lim Channel on the western coast of Istria, Croatia. The winery is led by winemaker Ivan Damjanić, who revived the family’s long-standing viticultural tradition in the early 2000s.

Vine growing on the estate dates back to the late 18th century, when the first vineyards were planted on these sites, establishing a long local history of wine production. Today the winery cultivates vineyards in a Mediterranean environment influenced by the nearby Adriatic Sea, where the combination of climate, sunlight and Istrian soils contributes to the character and balance of the wines.

The production focuses mainly on regional grape varieties, particularly Malvazija Istarska, alongside varieties such as Borgonja, Teran, Chardonnay and Yellow Muscat. Damjanić produces several wine lines that range from fresh, varietal expressions to more structured wines with additional aging.

Over time the winery has gained recognition for its consistent quality and has received various awards at regional and international wine competitions, becoming a notable producer within the modern Istrian wine scene.Expand