Our “Roots of Zinfandel” tour sets itself apart as it takes you on a journey tracing the footsteps of the Zinfandel grape from its origins in the picturesque region of Dalmatia, Croatia, to the vineyards of California. Unlike other tours, we dive deep into the historical and cultural significance of the Zinfandel grape, or Crljenak Kaštelanski, as it is known here in its homeland.

Your adventure begins in the historic region of Kaštela, a collection of scenic coastal towns where the story of Zinfandel, or Crljenak Kaštelanski, starts. Here, you will visit the charming Bedalov wine cellar, where the cherished Zinfandel grape is grown, harvested, and transformed into the exquisite wines that have made Dalmatia world-renowned.

The next stop is the Babe wine cellar near Trogir. Known for its picturesque views of Čiovo Island and Marjan hill, Babe adds a touch of splendor to the wine tasting experience. The Zinfandel journey, the labor, and love that goes into each bottle of wine are part of the tasting experience.

Embarking on a Zinfandel wine tasting experience in Croatia, you’re setting sail on a voyage of flavor, history, and heritage. The wine is robust and deeply expressive, much like the region itself, revealing its unique notes to the discerning palate.

During your visit to Bedalov, you’ll not only savor Zinfandel’s rich flavor, but also Plavac mali and Maraština wines, well-matched with local snacks. Then, at Babe, expect a trifecta of delectable wines: Zinfandel, Merlot, and Cuvée. As you sip on these exquisite wines, you’ll be privy to breathtaking vistas of the region, and the grape’s journey from vine to glass.

The story of Zinfandel, known in Croatia as Crljenak Kaštelanski, has a riveting and surprising history. Its roots in Croatia were almost forgotten after a devastating phylloxera outbreak in the late 19th century. This catastrophe led to a significant decrease in production and resulted in Zinfandel gaining prominence in the United States. The ancestral variety, Crljenak Kaštelanski, sadly faded into obscurity in its homeland.

However, the recent identification of Zinfandel’s origins has sparked a renaissance for Crljenak Kaštelanski in Croatia. Now, the grape is again thriving in its home soil and creating wines that captivate and delight wine lovers globally.

Our private Zinfandel wine tasting tour is curated to offer guests an exclusive and memorable experience. The tour is chauffeur-driven, ensuring comfort, luxury, and safety. The itinerary includes visits to two unique wineries in the region where the cultivation of the Zinfandel grape is a part of their heritage.

On this tour, you will be guided through the vineyards and cellars, learning about the intricate process of wine production and the journey of the Zinfandel grape. Your tastings at each winery are supplemented by insights into the wines, the local olives, and olive oils.

Our Zinfandel wine tasting tour is a rich and immersive experience that dives into the history, culture, and intricate process of winemaking. Given the nature of this tour, including wine tasting and some off-road driving, we typically do not recommend it for families with young children. However, we are more than happy to recommend or customize family-friendly tours that cater to the interests and comfort of every member of your family.