Saint John Zelina, a picturesque small town located in the heart of Prigorje, is eagerly preparing to host another edition of its most prestigious event. On the upcoming Friday, June 13, 2025, the doors of the „Kraluš” hall will open for all lovers of the noble drop, marking the beginning of the 57th Exhibition of Wines of Continental Croatia. This event, rightly considered one of the most important viticultural and winemaking gatherings in the country, will once again bring together top producers, experts, and enthusiasts in one place, confirming the status of Saint John Zelina as an undisputed center of wine excellence.

Tradition of excellence and strict judging criteria

The long-standing tradition of this event testifies to its importance and reputation in the wine world. This year, an impressive number of 302 wine samples were submitted for evaluation, which only confirms the richness and diversity of the wine scene in continental Croatia. Each of these samples went through a rigorous evaluation process by an expert judging committee. At the head of this team of experienced oenologists and wine connoisseurs is dr. sc. Ivana Alpeza, whose expertise and authority guarantee impartiality and high standards of judging. The committee evaluates not only the organoleptic properties of the wine, such as aroma, taste, and color, but special attention is also paid to the overall impression, including clarity and varietal typicity.

In addition to the quality of the wine itself, the Exhibition of Wines of Continental Croatia also recognizes the importance of product presentation. Therefore, a separate committee, led by the distinguished wine publicist and expert Saša Špiranec, is responsible for judging the visual identity of the bottles. The most successful label design and overall bottle appearance are awarded the prestigious „Dragutin Stražimir” award, named in honor of a pioneer of modern viticulture and winemaking in Croatia. This award encourages winemakers to be creative and invest in visual identity, which plays an increasingly important role in attracting consumers.

A celebration of taste and accolades in the heart of Prigorje

The central event of the manifestation, the ceremonial awarding of prizes and recognitions, will take place on Friday, June 13, starting at 6 PM in the „Kraluš” hall, located at Vatrogasna 3 in Saint John Zelina. Visitors can expect an evening filled with exquisite wines, pleasant socializing, and a rich cultural and entertainment program. The well-known musical duo Barbara Suhodolčan Vrbički and Rajko Suhodolčan will guide attendees through the ceremony, and their performances will further enrich the atmosphere.

During the evening, an impressive number of medals will be awarded: as many as 11 grand gold diplomas, 94 gold diplomas, 119 silver, and 51 bronze diplomas. Three special recognitions will also be presented, as well as a series of other awards that celebrate the excellence and effort of winemakers. This year's absolute champion of the judging was declared Chardonnay ice harvest from 2018, a premium predicate wine from the esteemed Bodren winery. The title of overall champion of Zagreb County was won by Traminac, vintage 2023, from the cellar of the Žnidarić winery, which confirms the continuous quality of their wines. The Žnidarić winery can also boast of winning the „Ljerka Habuzin” award, which is given for the best-rated wine of the indigenous Kraljevina variety from the current vintage, thereby further emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting original Croatian varieties.

The prestigious „Dragutin Stražimir” award for the best visual identity of a bottle this year went to Iločki podrumi for their sparkling wine Traminac No. 10, demonstrating a blend of tradition and modern design. Special recognitions for their exceptional contribution and the quality of their wines will also be received by the wineries Puhelek-Purek, known for their sparkling and still wines, Litterarii with an innovative approach, and the renowned wineries Belje and Thesarium. This diversity of awarded winemakers from different parts of continental Croatia clearly indicates the breadth and depth of quality that characterizes this wine region. A detailed list of all awarded winemakers and wines will be made available to the public, providing insight into the current state and highlights of wine production.

For all visitors eager to explore the awarded and other excellent wines, tickets will be available at the entrance to the „Kraluš” hall at a price of 25 euros. With the ticket, a deposit of 5 euros will also be required for a tasting glass. This glass becomes the key to unlimited tasting of all exhibited wines, allowing visitors to discover their own favorites and enjoy the diversity of flavors and aromas. To make the experience complete, a suitable reception with authentic Zelina delicacies, perfectly paired with local wines, will be organized. The popular Tamburaški sastav Fijaker will provide an excellent musical atmosphere throughout the evening, whose sounds will further warm up the atmosphere.

Experience the charms of Saint John Zelina and the Prigorje region

A visit to the 57th Exhibition of Wines of Continental Croatia is an ideal opportunity to extend your stay in Saint John Zelina and explore all the beauties this region offers. The Prigorje region, with its untouched nature, rich historical heritage, traditional gastronomy, and the widely known hospitality of its hosts, captivates at first sight and invites discovery. Consider complementing your wine experience by exploring accommodation capacities in Saint John Zelina and its surroundings and spend an unforgettable weekend.

The opportunities for enjoyment are numerous and tailored to different tastes. Nature lovers can go for a picnic among the gentle vineyards, with baskets filled with local specialties such as homemade cheese, cold cuts, and freshly baked bread. For those more active, numerous cycling trails wind through green hills and picturesque villages, offering beautiful scenery and healthy recreation. Hikers and walkers will inevitably head towards the top of Zelina Mountain, Kladeščica, the highest point in this area, from where a spectacular view of the surroundings extends. This peak is a popular excursion spot and provides an escape from everyday life. Families with children will find joy in modernly equipped children's playgrounds, while romantic souls will enjoy relaxing moments at sunset, perhaps with a view of the vineyards from the comfort of one of the local pools or terraces of private accommodation in Saint John Zelina.

Here, in the heart of Prigorje, everyday worries are easily forgotten. It is not necessary to travel far, like to popular Italian destinations, to experience the philosophy of "dolce far niente" – the sweet art of doing nothing and enjoying the moment. It is present here, in the authentic ambiance of Saint John Zelina, where the simplicity of life is celebrated with every sip of wine and every bite of local specialties. Visitors are invited to surrender to the sweet little moments of joy, peace, and tranquility that this region so generously offers. Explore historical sights, such as the remains of old Zelingrad, or visit one of the local churches that testify to a rich cultural heritage.

The wine splendor of continental Croatia

Continental Croatia, with its diverse terroir and climatic conditions, is home to numerous indigenous and international grape varieties that produce wines of exceptional quality. Besides the already mentioned champions, Chardonnay and Traminac, and the indigenous flagship of the Zelina region – Kraljevina, this region offers a true wealth of flavors. Kraljevina, known for its lightness, freshness, and drinkability, is an ideal summer wine and a perfect companion to lighter dishes. Traminac, on the other hand, captivates with its intense aromas of rose and honey, often yielding premium predicate wines, including ice harvests that represent the crown of winemaking skill. Ice harvest, like the award-winning Chardonnay from the Bodren winery, is made from grapes that were frozen on the vine, resulting in a concentrated, sweet wine of exceptional aroma.

In addition to these varieties, continental Croatia also prides itself on Graševina, the most widespread white variety that yields wines of various styles, from fresh and vibrant to complex and aged. There are also aromatic Sauvignon Blanc, elegant Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc, and red varieties such as Frankovka, Portugizac, and Pinot Noir, which are showing increasing potential. Winemakers in continental Croatia are increasingly investing in modernizing cellars and applying new technologies, while simultaneously preserving traditional production methods and respecting the specificities of each variety and vineyard. The number of producers turning to organic farming and the production of sparkling wines, which are becoming increasingly popular on the market, is also growing.

The significance of the Exhibition for promotion and development

Events like the 57th Exhibition of Wines of Continental Croatia are of immeasurable importance for the promotion not only of individual winemakers and their products but also of the entire region. They put Saint John Zelina and Zagreb County on the wine map of Croatia and Europe, attracting tourists and wine lovers. Furthermore, they encourage the development of viticulture and winemaking through healthy competition and exchange of experiences, thereby raising the quality bar year after year. Wine tourism, as a branch that combines oenology, gastronomy, and culture, has enormous potential in this region, and the Wine Exhibition serves as its best ambassador. It not only celebrates wine but also the effort, knowledge, and passion of the people behind every bottle.

The patronage over this valuable event has been recognized by the highest state officials and institutions, which further confirms its importance. The patrons of the 57th Exhibition of Wines of Continental Croatia are the Government of the Republic of Croatia, the Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia, the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, the Ministry of Agriculture, Zagreb County, and the Town of Saint John Zelina. Their support is crucial for the further growth and development of the event, as well as for strengthening the position of continental wines on the domestic and international markets.