Wine Tasting Zadar & The Top 10 Wineries In Zadar

Croatia is packed with sights and experiences, but if you’re a wine lover, you’re in for a serious treat. The country is full of wineries, but there are only a few in the Zadar Region. Here are the wineries in Zadar that stand out far above the rest for me.

Do you love a glass of vino?

Let’s explore these top wineries in Zadar to get your taste buds tingling and to enjoy the outstanding wines you can enjoy here.

1. MasVin Winery (Nadin)

While MasVin might not have the history of Kraljevski (see below), it still has an impressive story and some award-winning wines to try. MasVin is dedicated to producing locally grown produce, such as olive oil, figs, and wine, to restore the local area’s economy following the homeland war.

This has brought jobs to the region and generated huge interest in its delicious fare! The winery is part of the cooperative ‘Olive and Wine’ and was established in 2006.

Set in an equally scenic location, MasVin is about a 45-minute drive from Zadar, in a pretty village called Palaca. The area has been agriculturally crucial for decades, and the scenery is rural, taking you far away from the tourism boom and beaches you’re used to. A trip to MasVin is ideal for an afternoon out.

In addition to olive oil and figs, you can also try to buy several types of wine.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Crljenak (White): A strongly flavored wine that goes well with meat
• Cabernet Sauvignon (Red): This is a full-bodied red wine with hints of ripe berries.
• Crljenak (White): This is a mid-dry wine with a soft taste and is ideal with chicken.
• Cuvee (Red): This is a mixture of everything and has a varied, dry taste.
• Dux Croatorum (Red): Quite sweet for red wine, this wine has hints of sour cherries and blackberries.
• Merlot 2016 (Red): One of the award-winning wines of the area, with a velvety plum taste
• Shiraz – Syrah (Red): This violet-colored wine pairs really well with barbecued meats.
• Marastina Chardonnay (White): It pairs well with fish, lamb, or chicken; it is a dry white wine.
• Yellow Muscat (White): A mid-sweet white wine with berry and floral hints
• Rosé (Rosé): The RosésiRosénk wine with a very fresh taste

Surely, there’s plenty in there for you to try your taste buds on!

Several group tours are on offer (like this one, which we wholeheartedly recommend), but you need to book 24-48 hours beforehand to be sure of a place. The tour will take you around the vineyards and allow you to taste wines and other products created on the grounds, such as fig products and olive oil.

Of course, you can also buy any products or wines you like the taste of, with a small discount for purchasing on the day.

2. Degarra Winery (Zadar)

A relative newcomer to the Zadar winery world, Degarra Winery opened its doors in 2012 and is located in a former army barracks site. With the motto ‘New and Original,’ you can expect some rather mouth-watering wines coming your way, but the scenery is pretty impressive, too!

The Degarra Winery grapes are grown on the Ravni Kotari, a 1.8-hectare site set amongst rolling fields and trees.  

The winery was initially founded by the Pestic and Sulentic families, opening one large winery that nowadays offers various delicious red, pink, and white wines.

Degarra Winery is a great day out, and the wine-tasting room is a short Uber ride from the center of Zadar. You can taste delicacies such as Cabernet, Merlot, Marastina, Plavin, and Syrah.

The winery’s most famous and prized choice is the Bomary, a combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot. If you’re a lover of sparkling wine, Degarra Winery is also where the first Zadar-produced fizz came from!

Aside from wine tasting, you can also taste some delicious locally produced fare, such as cheeses, olive oil, and fish, as the Degarra Winery has teamed up with local families to showcase the area’s most delicious treats.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Degarra Bonterra – A combination of Cabernet, Merlot, and Syrah
• Degarra Bomary – A special blend of Merlot, Plavin, Syrah, and Marastina
• Degarra Pošip – Derived from the Pošip grape
• Degarra Rosé – A combinatRoséof Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon

3. Fiolić Winery Tasting Room (Kožino)

Croatia is packed with sights and experiences, but if you enjoy good wine and a more personal experience, this one is worth adding to your list. Just north of Zadar, Fiolić Winery has opened a new tasting room in Kožino, offering a relaxed, intimate way to discover local Dalmatian wines without heading deep into the countryside.

The new tasting room has been thoughtfully designed for small groups, making it ideal if you prefer calm, unhurried tastings rather than extensive, commercial tours.

An excellent option for a relaxed, low-key wine experience.

Set close to the coast, the Kožino tasting room is an easy drive from Zadar and makes a good short stop or a planned afternoon visit. Tastings are hosted in a comfortable, modern space where guests are guided through Fiolić’s range of fresh and aged wines, with plenty of time to ask questions and actually enjoy what’s in the glass.

Alongside the wines, visitors can also sample Fiolić’s well-known fig and sour cherry (maraška) liqueurs, served with simple local accompaniments that highlight the flavors rather than overpower them.

While the wines are excellent, don’t skip the liqueurs. Both have received local and international recognition and are made using traditional methods that reflect the winery’s focus on craftsmanship and regional character.

Fun fact: Fiolić liqueurs are still produced using traditional handmade techniques, including the use of desalinated seawater, which contributes to their distinctive character.

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4. Kraljevski Winery (Petrčane)

Kraljevski Winery is located around 12 km from Zadar in the beautiful Northern Dalmatia region. The plus point of this particular winery isn’t just the stunning scenery or the delicious wine; it’s its location.

It’s just over a 10-minute drive away from Zadar, so you can easily take an afternoon off from your beach fun and enjoy some wine tasting.

The hilltop location lends stunning views over the Adriatic, and the whole area, towering above Petrcane and Punta Skala, will take your breath away. The winery’s history is quite interesting, too, dating right back to 1066! The vineyards were put into production in 1072, with the land belonging to the Benedictine Monastery of St Mary in Zadar.

Enough about the scenery and history, though; what about the wine?

Most of the work in the winery is done by hand, which is thought to give the wine its distinct, sharp taste, as well as years of experience passed down through the generations. Kraljevski produces a range of white, red, and roroséines.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Posip (White): A strong-bodied wine with a taste of figs, apricots, and herbs
• Plavac Mali (Red): A native Croatian wine with hints of cherries and plums
• Crljenak (Red): Another native Croatian red wine that has a softer taste, with hints of blueberries, raspberries, and plums
• Rosé ScuRoséRoRoséRosé, delicate Rosée with flavorrosé rosé, sour cherries, and strawberries.
• Muskat Zuti (White): This is a medium-dry wine with a yellow hue and a sweet flavor.

Enjoy the wine-tasting tour to learn about how these wines are produced and, of course, try them out for yourself. The winery is open to the public Monday through Sunday, with tastings from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. You don’t generally need to book unless you are in a group of ten or more.

Within this, you will get a tour of the vineyards and a tasting session. If you prefer, you can book a private tour and tasting session, but it must be pre-booked.

5. Vinarija Skaulj (Nadin)

In the middle of Ravni Kotar, Nadin, you’ll find Vinarija Skaulj, a large and popular winery that offers tours and wine tasting. The winery spans 15 hectares amidst some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable.

Vinarija Skaulj is a family-owned winery that has been producing exquisite wines for generations. With a passion for tradition and a dedication to quality, it has established itself as one of the region’s top wineries. The winery’s idyllic location, surrounded by picturesque vineyards and olive groves, gives it a really tranquil vibe.

One of Vinarija Skaulj’s highlights is its commitment to using indigenous grape varieties. This allows it to showcase the unique flavors and characteristics that make Croatian wines so special.

In addition to wine tastings, Vinarija Skaulj offers guided tours of its vineyards and winemaking facilities. Here, you can witness the in-depth care that goes into cultivating and harvesting the grapes and the artistry behind the winemaking process.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Maraština
• Merlot
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Tomislav Cuvee

6. Vina Vinketa Winery (Polača)

Nestled amidst rolling hills and overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Vina Vinketa Winery is an extremely picturesque place to visit. It’s definitely one for the camera. This family-run winery has been producing distinctive wines for generations.

As with many wineries in the area, Vina Vinketa Winery are committed to organic viticulture. The vineyards are meticulously tended to with sustainable practices, with a focus on enhancing the natural balance of the ecosystem.

The winery offers a range of tours and tastings, allowing visitors to explore the vineyards, cellar, and tasting room. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a diverse range of wines, from crisp and refreshing whites to full-bodied reds, each showcasing the unique flavors and characteristics of the local grape varieties.

In addition to its exceptional wines, Vina Vinketa Winery takes pride in its commitment to cultural heritage. The winery hosts regular events, workshops, and gatherings that celebrate local traditions, creating an unforgettable wine experience that goes beyond taste.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Debit
• Plavina
• Syrah
• Merlot
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Grenache Noir

7. Karaba Wines (Nadin)

At Karaba Wines, the passion for winemaking runs deep. The vineyard spans several hectares, where the vines thrive under the Mediterranean sun and benefit from the gentle sea breezes that grace this coastal region. The winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern technology.

The winery prioritizes respecting the environment. It cultivates vineyards using traditional, natural methods and produces its wines from only the highest-quality fruit. Each grape is handpicked and carefully selected.

When it comes to wine tasting, Karaba Wines goes above and beyond. The winery offers a warm, inviting tasting room where you can sample its award-winning wines while enjoying dazzling views of the vineyard and the Adriatic Sea. The knowledgeable staff are eager to share the stories behind each wine, providing an educational and engaging experience.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Maraština
• Debit
• Crljenak
• Pošip
• Merlot

8. Vina Buljat (Stankovci)

Established by the passionate winemaker Juraj Buljat, Vina Buljat is a family-run winery that takes pride in producing high-quality, handcrafted wines. With a deep understanding of the region’s terroir and a commitment to sustainable viticulture, the Buljat family has created a range of wines that reflect the unique character and flavors of the Zadar region.

One of Vina Buljat’s standout features is its dedication to indigenous grape varieties. This winery particularly focuses on local grape varieties such as Marastina, which thrives in the region’s Mediterranean climate. These varieties not only add a distinctive touch to their wines but also help preserve the region’s rich viticultural heritage.

Beyond the winery itself, Vina Buljat offers visitors the opportunity to explore the picturesque surroundings. The winery is perched on a hill, providing stunning views of the vineyards, olive groves, and the Adriatic Sea. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards and immerse yourself in nature, or relax on the winery’s terrace while savoring a glass of their exceptional wine.

Vina Buljat also offers food-and-wine pairing events. Taste the carefully selected local delicacies that perfectly complement the flavors of their wines, allowing you to truly appreciate the region’s gastronomical delights.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Maraština
• Chardonnay
• Merlot
• Soare
• Syrah
• CRosé
• Rosé

9. Bora WineRoséodgradina / Posedarje area)

If you’re looking for a winery in the Zadar region that feels truly under-the-radar, Bora Wines is a great find. Located in the Ravni Kotari area near Podgradina, this small, family-run winery focuses on quality over quantity, with a strong emphasis on indigenous grape varieties and minimal intervention in the cellar.

Bora Wines is not a polished, tourist-heavy operation—and that’s exactly the appeal. Tastings are intimate and usually by appointment, making this a great option if you prefer a more personal experience where you can actually talk to the people behind the wine.

The vineyards benefit from a mix of inland warmth and cooling coastal influences, which gives the wines structure while maintaining freshness. Everything is done with strong respect for the land, using traditional, natural vineyard practices wherever possible.

During a tasting, you’ll get insight into how Ravni Kotari terroir shapes each wine, along with a relaxed, no-rush approach that lets you take your time with each glass.

Main Wines You Will Find

Bora Wines is ideal for wine lovers who’ve already ticked off the bigger names and want to discover something more local, authentic, and quietly excellent—without the crowds.

10. Vinarija Vrsaljko (Nadin)

Vinarija Vrsaljko is a boutique, eco-focused winery nestled in the wine-growing area of Nadin in Ravni Kotari. Run as a family operation, this winery emphasizes organic production and traditional methods to craft expressive wines from both international and local varieties.

Production is relatively small and attentive, with a selection that includes red, white, and cuvée styles that reflect the fertile Nadinsko blato terroir. The winery’s journey began in 2008, and since then, its wines have gathered recognition at domestic and international wine events.

Tastings are typically available by prior appointment, making this a good stop if you prefer a quieter, more personal tasting experience where you can chat with the people behind the wine.

Main Wines You Will Find

• Maraština (white)
• Syrah (red)
• Nadinska Rana (Merlot & Syrah blend)
• Cuvée (blend)

Where To Try Zadar Region Wines (Without Leaving the Old Town)

If you don’t have time to visit all these wineries in person, the good news is that several excellent wine bars in Zadar’s Old Town (Poluotok) showcase wines from Ravni Kotari and the wider Zadar region. These are the best places to taste a wide selection in one sitting.

Pinčo Tapas & Wine Bar

Address: Ulica Mihovila Pavlinovića 6, 23000 Zadar, Croatia Pinčo Tapas & Wine Bar Zadar
Website: https://www.pincobarzadar.com
Instagram: @pincobarzadar

Pinčo is one of Zadar’s most exciting spots to try a wide range of Croatian wines by the glass, showcasing bottles from the Zadar region and beyond paired with Mediterranean-inspired small plates. It’s a lively yet relaxed wine bar with over 50 wines by the glass, thoughtful food pairings, and a great atmosphere right in the heart of Old Town, perfect for discovering local wines without visiting the vineyards.

4 Kantuna

A long-time favorite in the Old Town, 4 Kantuna combines traditional Dalmatian food with a solid Croatian wine list. You’ll often find bottles from Ravni Kotari producers alongside reliable Dalmatian classics.
Why go: hearty food, familiar atmosphere, and a good option if you want wine paired with proper local dishes rather than just snacks.

Wine Bar The Wine & Cheese Bar

(Commonly known as Wine Barrel)

Wine Barrel is a more classic wine bar experience, with a strong focus on Croatian wines from across the country, including selections from northern Dalmatia and the Zadar hinterland.
Why go: quieter, more wine-focused environment, ideal if you want to slow down, compare styles, and talk wine without the buzz of a full restaurant.

These Zadar wineries are sure to please, especially when combined with exploring the city itself. Let us know what you think.