Best Croatian Alcoholic Beverage Types
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Best Croatian Alcoholic Beverages
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
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
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
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
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2022
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
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
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
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