Kvarner Region Emerges as Croatia‘s Premier Wine and Culinary Destination
Rijeka, Croatia – September 5, 2025 – Croatia’s Kvarner region is rapidly gaining recognition as a must-visit destination for wine and food lovers, offering a compelling choice to more established Mediterranean hotspots. Recent accolades at the Decanter World Wine Awards, coupled with a surge in tourism focused on authentic culinary experiences, signal a turning point for the region’s viticultural and gastronomic landscape. The area, encompassing the islands of Krk, Cres, Lošinj, and the mainland coastal area, is poised to become a leading destination for discerning travelers seeking unique flavors and breathtaking scenery.
For decades, Kvarner remained largely under the radar, overshadowed by Dalmatia and Istria. However, a renewed focus on indigenous grape varieties, enduring farming practices, and a commitment to preserving customary cuisine is driving a renaissance. this shift is attracting international attention, with winemakers celebrating record-breaking performance at competitions like the Decanter World Wine Awards, and publications like Decanter highlighting the region’s rising prominence. The economic impact is significant, benefiting local producers and bolstering the tourism sector, with further growth anticipated as awareness increases.
Kvarner’s unique terroir - a blend of mountainous terrain, coastal breezes, and mineral-rich soils – contributes to the distinctive character of its wines. Key indigenous grapes include Žlahtina, found almost exclusively on the island of Krk, and Vrbnička Žlahtina, known for its crisp acidity and floral aromas. Red varieties like Refošk and Plavac mali also thrive in the region, producing robust and flavorful wines.
Beyond wine, Kvarner boasts a rich culinary heritage rooted in fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional recipes. Visitors can savor delicacies such as škampi na buzaru (scampi in a tomato-based sauce),fuži pasta with truffles,and lamb prepared ispod peke (under a bell-shaped lid). The Dalmatian Islands, easily accessible from Kvarner, further enhance the region’s appeal for wine and food enthusiasts.
The growing recognition of Kvarner’s offerings is exemplified by recent coverage in Decanter, including articles on Croatian winemakers’ success at the Decanter World Wine Awards, the wine renaissance unfolding along the croatian coast in Dalmatia, and the appeal of the Dalmatian Islands for wine lovers. This increased visibility is expected to drive further investment in the region’s wine and food industries, solidifying kvarner’s position as a premier destination for culinary tourism.
