Friday Night Wine School - Revisiting the Indigenous Wines of Croatia

Croatia has a rich wine culture that stretches back over 2,500 years, rooted in ancient traditions passed down from the Illyrians, Greeks, and Romans. In recent years, Croatian wines have gained international acclaim for their quality and unique indigenous grape varieties, shaped by the country's diverse geography and climate. The country's wine regions are broadly divided into four key areas: Dalmatia, Istria and Kvarner, Slavonia and the Danube, and the Croatian Uplands. Each region offers its own distinctive characteristics, influenced by their varying climates, soils, and grape varieties.

Croatia is home to more than 130 indigenous grape varieties, many of which are unique to the country. Beyond Plavac Mali, Malvazija Istarska, and Graševina, other notable varieties include Vugava, a rare white grape from the island of Vis that produces full-bodied wines with tropical fruit notes, and Debit, a versatile white grape from Dalmatia used for both dry and sweet wines. Bogdanuša, from the island of Hvar, is another indigenous white variety traditionally associated with religious celebrations.

The styles of Croatian wines are as diverse as the regions themselves, ranging from refreshing dry whites to rustic, robust reds and even unique dessert wines - and recently, orange wines have been gaining popularity.  Croatia’s rising reputation as a wine destination is enhanced by its beautiful wine regions, historic vineyards, and small, family-run wineries. Wine tourism, particularly in Istria, is thriving, with visitors exploring wine roads, sampling local food pairings, and visiting ancient vineyards set against breathtaking landscapes. This blend of tradition and innovation is helping Croatian wines make their mark on the global wine stage.

Sara Sparks from Lirette Selections will host this fun and informative tasting.  Lirette Selections has made a big commitment to Croatian wines and has the largest portfolio in the state.  We hope you'll join us!

Drink a little, learn a little, and have some fun with us!

-All ticket sales are final.
-We will hold our tastings outside on the patio from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM on Fridays weather permitting, if it rains we move inside to the back of the shop.
-Your $5 tasting fee is refunded when you purchase a bottle of wine from the tasting. Limit 1 refund per bottle per customer.
-Please arrive 5 minutes early for your time slot, as we may not be able to move you to another spot.
-No waiting in line for your taste of wine in a plastic cup and snippet of info. During your time slot, you will have the presenter's undivided attention as you learn about and taste the wines from Riedel glassware.
-When your tasting is over, you can browse and shop or enjoy a glass or bottle at our indoor and outdoor tables.