Search locations or food
OR
Sign up

What to drink in Croatia? Top 59 Croatian Alcoholic Beverages

Last update: Sat Mar 1 2025
Top 59 Croatian Alcoholic Beverages
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Croatian Alcoholic Beverage Types

01
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

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. 
02
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

Slavonian plum brandy is the most popular drink in eastern Croatia. It is distilled from locally grown fresh and ripe plums such as Bistrica, which have been cultivated in the region for centuries. This clear drink can range from light yellow to amber in color, depending on whether it is aged in Slavonian oak.


It is characterized by harmonious aromas of plums and a long finish, while its alcohol content may range from 37.5 to 42.5%. Slavonian šljivovica is not merely a drink, it is deeply integrated into Slavonian tradition, and no special event or gathering is complete without a shot of well-chilled šljivovica. 
03

Spirit

CROATIA and  3 more regions
4.2
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

Dunjevača (rakija od dunje) is a clear and colorless spirit distilled from ripe fermented quinces. This fruit brandy—known as rakija—is one of the most popular spirits in the Balkans and is usually of excellent quality. Dunjevača is a potent spirit (40% ABV) that has a pleasant quince aroma.


Most examples are colorless, but some producers opt for oak-aging, which typically imparts golden color and woody notes. Dunjevača is served neat, preferably well chilled. It is mainly enjoyed as an aperitif.

04

Liqueur

ISTRIA, Croatia
4.2
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

Teranino is a unique Croatian liqueur produced with fruit or pomace brandy and red wine made from Teran variety—hence the name. This liqueur is usually sweetened and flavored with various botanicals such as cinnamon, cloves, star anise, lemon, vanilla, or fennel.


The result is a ruby red liqueur with an earthy and herbaceous character, fruity notes, and sweet, spicy aromas. Teranino is sweet and typically has between 15 to 20% ABV. It is best to serve it chilled and enjoy it as an aperitif or a digestif. Teranino can be served neat or on the rocks. 
05

Wine Variety

KORČULA, Croatia
4.0
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

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. 
06

Wine Variety

ŠIBENIK-KNIN COUNTY, Croatia
4.0
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

Babić is a native red Croatian grape that is mainly cultivated in central and northern Dalmatia and some Dalmatian islands, but the best expressions come from Šibenik-Knin County. The variety was traditionally used as a blending grape, but it has shown excellent potential as an age-worthy varietal wine.


The terroir dramatically influences the quality of Babić wines. Fertile soils around Šibenik tend to produce light, medium-bodied wines with flavor and aroma reminiscent of red berries. The best expressions of Babić come from Primošten and Rogoznica, situated in the southernmost part of Šibenik-Knin County, where the grapes are mostly cultivated on poor, karst limestone soils surrounded by stone walls. 
07

Wine Variety

DALMATIA, Croatia
3.9
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

Plavac mali is a red grape variety that is indigenous to southern Croatian region of Dalmatia. A sibling to Primitivo and Zinfandel, and a descendant of Crljenak kaštelanski and Dobričić varieties, the grape makes bold, powerful wines that are overwhelmed with ripe fruit and high in tannins.


Plavac mali is usually made as a varietal wine, and it is popular as a flagship Croatian red wine. The best expressions are thought to come from the peninsula of Pelješac, from Dingač and Postup appellations. It is traditionally paired with oily and barbecued fish, but it can hold up quite well with red meat, aged cheese, game, or hearty stews.

08

Fruit Liqueur

ZADAR, Croatia
3.9
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

This clear cherry-flavored liqueur dates back to the 16th century when it was first made by Dominican monks in Zadar. It is produced from the fruits (including the pits) of Marasca cherries, which give Maraschino its unique, intense aroma, and subtle bitterness.


The commercial production started in the 18th century by Francesco Drioli, while Dalmatia was still under the rule of Venetian Republic. In the mid-20th century, during political turmoil, the production was abruptly stopped, and the Yugoslav government later unified it under one enterprise, which would later be named Maraska
09

Spirit

ISTRIA, Croatia
3.9
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

Biska is a traditional Istrian mistletoe-flavored brandy. The base is usually made with komovica, a type of brandy produced from grape marc (grape pomace) combined with dry mistletoe leaves. The macerate is left until the base spirit is thoroughly infused.


Biska can vary in color, from light yellow to dark green. It can also be made with green or yellow mistletoe, while the base is sometimes made with lozovača (another type of brandy made from grape marc) or jabukovača (apple brandy). 
10

Wine Variety

ISTRIA, Croatia
3.9
Ate it? Rate it
Wanna try?
Add to list

Teran is a red grape variety that has been cultivated for centuries in Istria (Croatia), Friuli (Italy), and the Kras Plateau in Slovenia. The history and the usage of the name Teran have long been disputed between Croatia and Slovenia, and even though Slovenia registered the name as a Protected Designation of Origin, their Teran wines are mainly produced from a separate variety named Refošk.


The dispute was partially settled by the European Union when Croatia was allowed to use the name, but the wine has to be labeled as Teran – Croatian Istria (Hrvatska Istra). Slovenia later filed a lawsuit against the European Commission and this decision, but in 2020, The General Court of the EU supported the previous ruling and rejected Slovenian claims. 
11
Spirit
CROATIA  and  5 more regions
3.8
12
Wine Appellation
PELJEŠAC, Croatia
3.8
13
Dessert Wine
DALMATIA, Croatia
3.8
14
Wine Variety
SLAVONIA AND BARANJA, Croatia
3.7
15
Wine Variety
KORČULA, Croatia
3.7
16
17
18
Wine Cocktail
CENTRAL CROATIA, Croatia
3.4
19
Spirit
CROATIA  and  one more region
3.4
20
21
22
Wine Variety
SISAK-MOSLAVINA COUNTY, Croatia
3.3
23
Spirit
DALMATIA, Croatia  and  2 more regions
3.1
24
Wine Appellation
PELJEŠAC, Croatia
n/a
25
26
27
Wine Variety
VIS ISLAND, Croatia
n/a
28
29
Wine Variety
ŠIBENIK-KNIN COUNTY, Croatia
n/a
30
Wine Variety
MEĐIMURJE COUNTY, Croatia
n/a
31
Mead
ZAGREB COUNTY, Croatia
n/a
32
Wine Variety
DUBROVNIK-NERETVA COUNTY, Croatia
n/a
33
Wine Variety
DALMATIA, Croatia
n/a
34
Wine Variety
DALMATIA, Croatia
n/a
35
Wine Variety
DALMATIA, Croatia
n/a
36
Wine Variety
HVAR, Croatia
n/a
37
Wine Cocktail
DALMATIA, Croatia
n/a
38
Dessert Wine
SAMOBOR, Croatia
n/a
39
Wine Variety
ZADAR COUNTY, Croatia
n/a
40
41
Wine Variety
ŠOLTA, Croatia
n/a
42
Flower Liqueur
DUBROVNIK-NERETVA COUNTY, Croatia
n/a
43
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Croatian Alcoholic Beverages

01
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List

Aura Teranino is a renowned red wine liqueur produced by Aura Distillery in Istria, Croatia. Crafted from the indigenous Teran grape variety, this liqueur is infused with a blend of ten aromatic spices, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.


It boasts a deep ruby-red color and offers enticing aromas of ripe cherries, milk chocolate, and cinnamon. On the palate, it is sweet and layered, with a lingering aftertaste reminiscent of cherry marmalade. With an alcohol content of 15.86%, Aura Teranino is best enjoyed chilled, either neat or over ice, and pairs well with desserts or as a standalone indulgence. 
AWARDS

European Spirits Challenge - Gold

2024, 2023

London Spirits Competition - Gold

2024

02
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List

Rakija Kajsijevača is a premium apricot brandy produced by Destilerija Simić. This spirit is crafted from carefully selected, ripe apricots, ensuring a rich and authentic flavor profile. The distillation process adheres to traditional methods, preserving the natural aromas and sweetness of the fruit.


The result is a smooth and aromatic brandy, ideal for sipping neat or as a base for various cocktails. Rakija Kajsijevača reflects the distillery's commitment to quality and the rich heritage of Croatian
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding

2024, 2022

03
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List

Aura Fernet Amaro 78 is a premium herbal liqueur produced by Aura Distillery in Istria, Croatia. Crafted from a blend of 78 different herbs, citrus peels, roots, and spices, this liqueur is made through a meticulous process of distillation, maceration, and infusion.


The number 78 signifies the variety of ingredients used, reflecting the distillery's dedication to complexity and quality. With an alcohol content of 34.7%, Aura Fernet Amaro 78 is traditionally enjoyed as a digestif, served chilled at temperatures between 6-8°C. 
AWARDS

European Spirits Challenge - Gold

2024, 2023

04
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List

Aura Gin Karbun Navy Strength is a premium Istrian dry gin made from grain distillate, juniper berries, and twenty wild herbs and spices. This gin carries the "Navy Strength" designation due to its remarkable strength of 58.5% alcohol. The term "Navy Strength" dates back to the 18th century, when officers of the British Royal Navy tested the gin's strength by mixing it with gunpowder; if the mixture burned with a clean flame, it confirmed the gin had at least 57% alcohol and was of good quality.


Gin Karbun Navy Strength is filtered through activated charcoal, enhancing its purity and unique character. It is recommended to serve it with dry tonic, ice, a slice of orange, and spices of your choice.
AWARDS

London Spirits Competition - Gold

2024

European Spirits Challenge - Gold

2023

05
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding

2022

06
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding

2024

07
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List
Wise Grus Loza Barrique is a premium grape brandy crafted by blending Graševina and Chardonnay varieties. This spirit is aged in Slavonian oak barrels, imparting herbal and vanilla notes that complement the fresh grape aromas. The oak maturation also bestows a golden-amber hue to the brandy.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold

2023

08

Wine

BRTONIGLA, Croatia
5.0
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List
AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show

2016

09
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List

Rossi Amaro Istriano is a premium digestive liqueur crafted by the Rossi family in Istria, Croatia. Inspired by traditional Italian Amaro recipes, it offers a harmonious blend of flavors. The aroma presents notes of berries, herbs, and roots, complemented by a citrus finish.


On the palate, it evokes green walnut, almond, gentian, and Mediterranean herbs, leading to a long, elegant bittersweet aftertaste. With an alcohol content of 28%, it is best enjoyed chilled at 8–10°C, either neat or over ice with a twist of orange peel. 
AWARDS

European Spirits Challenge - Gold

2024

10
Rate it
Wanna try?
Add To List

Rossi Epulon Liqueur is an elegant wormwood-based spirit crafted by the Rossi family in Istria, Croatia. It pays homage to Epulon, the legendary Istrian king, with its flavor profile reflecting his struggle for freedom against the Roman Empire. The liqueur's aroma is dominated by wormwood, complemented by notes of vanilla, caramel, and citrus.


On the palate, the bitterness of wormwood is balanced with soothing hints of citrus fruits, anise, vanilla, and caramel, culminating in a long-lasting, bittersweet aftertaste. With an alcohol content of 30%, it is best served chilled at 8–10°C, either neat or over ice, garnished with an orange or lemon peel. 
AWARDS

European Spirits Challenge - Gold

2024

11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
Wine
MOTOVUN, Croatia
4.8
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
Wine
LUMBARDA, Croatia
4.8
44
Wine
LUMBARDA, Croatia
4.8
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
PLEŠIVICA, Croatia
4.3
55
56
57
58
PLEŠIVICA, Croatia
4.1
59

TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.

Show Map
Croatian Alcoholic Beverages