Krk Island is renowned not only for its picturesque landscapes and historic charm but also for its exceptional vineyards. From indigenous grape varieties to traditional winemaking methods, experience the unique flavors that make this island a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Vrbnička Žlahtina
Vrbnička Žlahtina is a golden-hued, dry white wine that hails from the vineyard landscapes of Vrbnik, a small town perched on the picturesque cliffs of the island of Krk in Croatia. This wine offers a unique charm of its native land’s rich history, unique terroir, and the meticulous craftsmanship of its vintners.
Vrbnička Žlahtina is produced exclusively from the indigenous Žlahtina grape variety, which is primarily cultivated in the specific microregion of Vrbnik. The wine’s name itself, “Žlahtina,” is derived from the Slavic word “žlahten,” meaning noble, a testament to the pedigree and respect this wine commands.
The wine is characterized by its delicate, light body, balanced acidity, and a delightful bouquet of floral and fruity aromas. Its flavor profile, dominated by green apple, peach, and apricot notes, is underlined by subtle hints of almond, making it a perfect companion for seafood, white meat, and cheese.
In 2006, Vrbnička Žlahtina was granted a controlled designation of origin (PDO), further recognizing its quality and geographical uniqueness.
Trojiščina
Trojiščina is local wine, native to the island. It has become a symbol of the region’s wine-making tradition and has won the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide.
The Trojiščina wine is characterized by its light yellow color with greenish hues. It has a pleasant, fresh aroma that is a harmonious blend of apple, pear, and floral notes. Its taste is typically dry, with a well-balanced acidity that leaves a lasting impact on the palate. The wine is best served chilled and is a perfect accompaniment to the region’s seafood dishes, particularly shellfish and white fish.
Prosecco
Prosecco, a popular dessert wine typically associated with Italy’s Veneto region, has found a special home on Krk Island. This Croatian paradise, known for its fertile soil and Mediterranean climate, provides an ideal environment for the Glera grape, the primary ingredient in Prosecco.
The wine is characterized by its delicate aroma of green apples, honey, and white flowers, with a hint of citrus. Its effervescence is a perfect balance of playful bubbles and a crisp texture, making it an enjoyable aperitif or a companion to local seafood dishes.
Valomet – sparkling wine from the depths of the sea
There are few things in life that encapsulate the essence of luxury and romance as perfectly as a glass of sparkling wine. But when the wine in question is Valomet, the experience goes beyond the ordinary.
The Valomet story begins with the vision of Ivan Katunar, a renowned winemaker from Krk Island in Croatia. Inspired by the ancient winemaking tradition of storing wine in the sea, Katunar decided to take this concept to an entirely new level by aging his sparkling wine in the Adriatic.
The production process of Valomet is what sets it apart from other sparkling wines. The wine is initially fermented in stainless steel tanks and then bottled according to the traditional method of secondary fermentation in the bottle. The bottles are then placed in specially designed cages and sunk to a depth of about 32 meters into the sea for a period of one to two years. The constant temperature of the sea, the pressure at that depth, and the gentle rocking motion of the waves create the perfect conditions for aging.
As the wine matures in the sea, something extraordinary happens. The sea’s influence grants Valomet an unparalleled freshness and complexity. The wine develops a fine, long-lasting perlage and a unique mineral character that reflects the terroir of its underwater cellar. The bottles, once retrieved, are covered with maritime encrustations, a testament to their underwater journey.
When you pour a glass of Valomet, you will notice its bright, clear color that sparkles in the light. It greets the nose with a fresh, fruity aroma with a hint of bread crust, a characteristic of extended aging on lees. On the palate, it’s a symphony of flavors – apple, pear, and citrus layered with subtle yeasty notes and that distinct mineral quality. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving behind a taste that lingers and entices you for another sip.
Sansigot
The Sansigot grape, also known as Susak Krasotica, has a centuries-old history tied to the island of Krk. The grape variety originally came from the neighboring island of Susak, hence its alternative name.
Sansigot wine is cherished for its robust, full-bodied character and complex flavor profile. The wine boasts an intense ruby red color with a nearly black core, a testament to the grape’s thick skins. On the nose, it reveals a compelling mixture of ripe red and black fruits, sweet spices, and a hint of earthiness.
When it comes to taste, Sansigot delivers a rich palate of blackberries and plums, complemented by notes of tobacco, leather, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs. It has a well-rounded tannin structure and a lingering finish, making it a perfect companion for hearty meals.
Plavina
This wine is often overshadowed by the more popular Zinfandel (Crljenak Kaštelanski) or Plavac Mali, but it holds a place of pride among the locals of the Krk Island.
Plavina wine is often acclaimed for its light to medium body and lower tannin content. It presents a ruby red color, bright and lively.
On the palate, Plavina wine is reminiscent of red fruit flavors, predominantly cherries, plums, and raspberries, with a subtle hint of spice. Its high acidity balances the fruitiness and makes it a versatile choice for pairing with a variety of dishes.
Experience this island in full
Krk wines offer different experience for different people. You can perfectly pair traditional meals with one of the many wines from this island. Also, imagine sitting on the beach and watching sunset with your significant other. All you need is perfect wine for this occasion.