Several indigenous varieties of Zin existed in Croatia prior to an outbreak of phylloxera in the late 19th century. This devastating attack reduced the production severely and ultimately led to a massive exodus. Thereafter, Zin made its story in the United States while its ancestor, Crljenak Kaštelanski, faded into oblivion. But after the recent re-establishment of their kin, Crljenak wines took an upward turn as they never have before.
This private wine tour takes you to two relativley new wineries and reveals the actual story behind the famous grape. The first winery awaits in Kaštela, a historic region of small towns lined along the coast forming a scenic seaside promenade. Bedalov wine cellar is small and attached to a family guesthouse. All about hospitality, Bedalov proudly presents Crljenak Kaštelanski (Zinfandel) together with two other typical sorts, Plavac mali and Maraština. Light snack such as local olives and olive oil will round off the first wine tasting.
At your next stop, the Babe wine cellar near Trogir, you will get to try Crljenak Kaštelanski (Zinfandel), Merlot and Cuvée. Given the spectacular location of the winery, with breathtaking panoramas of Čiovo Island and Marjan hill, Babe is ideal for a stroll through the vineyards as you learn about all the precious steps and hard labor that goes into each bottle of wine!