March 10, 2021 - Crljenak Kaštelanski, easier pronounced as 'Tribidrag', is the most famous indigenous Croatian wine globally. It is the original Zinfandel, after all. 

Slobodna Dalmacija writes that this year, the people of Kaštela will make a toast to their well-known Crljenak Kaštelanski lineage, as it has been two decades since this forgotten variety returned.

Namely, twenty years ago, Kaštela discovered that their crljenak was the ancestor of the world-famous and renowned American zinfandel. Thus, the hard-working locals rolled up their sleeves to return this well-deserved splendor to their vineyards.

Thus, friends and admirers of wine and wine products came together in the Crljenak Kaštelanski Association, donated 500 vines to the winegrowers, and so the story began. A story about vineyards, vines, wine, taverns, festivities, evenings of wine, jazz, chocolate, evenings of crljenak under the stars, pairing food and wine, fairs, cooking competitions, gastronomic and wine tours, and more. 

Numerous events were organized in honor of that lineage and, finally, quality wines. Wines that have been crowned with numerous awards, plaques, and recognitions.

But how to continue preserving the heritage of their ancestors, further develop the story, and deliver a complete destination product in today's experience industry?

Thanks to Jakša Bedalov, Srećko Radnić, and the young Ivan Perišin, the celebratory program "Year of the Crljenak" will be held in Kaštela, the ancient homeland of zinfandel.

"We go first to Kozjak, at over 400 meters above sea level, to see where our ancestors planted vineyards and where we plant Crljenak," said Jakša Bedalov. 

"Our ancestors built borders, dry stone walls, as anyone calls these walls that enclose fertile soil and keep the earth from rushing down the slope. Clearing the fertile land was a very demanding job. You have to throw out a stone, dig up the ground, then stack the stone at the bottom and fill the ground again, for at least 60 centimeters of good soil," he says proudly and explains how you can buy half of Slavonia for one hectare of this hard Dalmatian land.

"I started rebuilding the vineyards of my ancestors in 2007, and now I have more than 14,000 vines, all indigenous varieties: maraština, dobričić, plavac mali, crljenak... I have more than 7000 red vines, high up on Kozjak. At the foot of the mountain is 800 meters above sea level. We are going to climb up, and you will see the view of Kaštela Bay. The Americans who had been touring the vineyards for years did not believe me that the ancestor of their zinfandel was growing there. But when they tried crljenak, they realized all the beauty and benefits of our climate for the vine," Bedalov adds.

Srećko spoke about the projects and events that will mark the 20th birthday of Crljenak.

"Our vision is that the projects "Creative and cultural industries," "Creative street" and "Kaštelanski Crljenak" will be the initiators of the overall development of our space. Both economically and socially! We are guided by the idea of the joint action of stakeholders in cultural and creative industries, local producers, and tourism, which is the latest practice and the most effective form of action in areas focused on tourism. The best example comes from the famous Napa Valley in California," Srećko said.

"We are expecting to celebrate 20 years since discovering that Kaštela is the ancestral home of the world-famous and recognized zinfandel, and our crljenak is its direct ancestor. Last year we celebrated "Crljenak Day" for the first time, and this year we will celebrate "Crljenak Year," for which we have prepared a special program. I want to point out how we will shape the "Story of our hero - the crljenak who returned home." We will present the documentary "In Zinfandel's Homeland" and organize a fair."

And it will all start with the “Creative Spring” event, which will be held for the fourth time in the preseason, from May 1 to June 21, over seven weeks and seven themed parts.

"We have "Gastro Week," then "Crljenak Kaštelanski Week," then "Film Week" and "Music Week," and then "Flower Week." "Kaštela Roads" will follow - boat tours, wine carriages, and at the end "Week of creative and cultural industries," Radnić says, announcing the premiere of another event - "Kaštela Culture Olympics," i.e., "OK Kaštela," but also traditionally "World Cup in Cuttlefish and Broad Beans."

"We will spend all this in our "Creative Kaštelanski Crljenak Street," which stretches from Kaštilac in Kaštel Gomilica to the tower Nehaj in Kaštel Štafilić, streets and squares along the coast, where various cultural events will take place.

The vineyards and wineries are the platforms for all these events because the vine and wine are the drivers of this whole story of recognizability and visibility of Kaštela as a favorite tourist and wine destination.

"The activities that we will carry out during the celebratory year are numerous. In addition to the symposium on the topic of crljenak, the story of the hero, and the project of protecting or designating origin for wine or vineyards, and remembering winemakers along "Crljenak Kaštelanski Street," the plan is also to open the Crljenak museum, then the Crljenak kaštelanski fair, and the label Zinfriendly," said Srećko of the important jubilee, where the City of Kaštela, the Tourist Board of Kaštela, the Museum of the City of Kaštela, the City Library, but also Split-Dalmatia County will lend a hand.

"We are doing all this in our honor," points out 23-year-old Ivan Perišin, who is planting a new, fourth vineyard with his father Vlado, giving them a total of more than 8,000 vines.

"The plan is to plant 2,500 new vines by my birthday on April 19, and all the land is on the slopes of Kozjak, at some 400 meters above sea level," says the young winegrower, adding that the tavern where they keep their wine, on the Kambelovac waterfront, is as old as Hajduk, from 1911. 

"The inhabitants of these areas were fishermen and farmers. The vineyards are their work, and our goal is to preserve what they left us," adds Bedalov, whose tasting room and tavern are also on the Kambelovac waterfront.

Together, they are working for Crljenak Kaštelanski to be recognized around the world. 

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

September 21, 2020 - Do you know any city center hotel in the world that have their own vineyard right on their own terrace? I don't. But I might be mistaken. Anyway, the terrace of the legendary Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb, however, holds a minuscule vineyard and they have proudly presented the first (limited, of course) edition of the 2019 vintage of their very own Zinfandel.

In fact, they initiated this project a few years ago with the legendary Croatian winemaker Vlado Krauthaker who gave his vines to the hotel as a gift. Last week, a small group of journalists and friends of Esplanade, had the honour and great pleasure to taste the bottles of this precious wine, and to help pick the grapes of this year's vintage.

"I remember the beginning of the collaboration with Esplanade...it started 20 years ago," said Vlado Krauthaker while reminiscing about how it all began when he started selling his highly esteemed wines to the hotel. It is not by chance that Zinfandel is also the name of the hotel's restaurant, one of the best fine dining restaurants in Zagreb, with chef Ana Grgić at its head.

"It is obvious now that the idea of synergy between the hotel, fine dining, and winemaking was a good idea indeed," said Krauthaker, proudly presenting the bottles.

The 2019 vintage is characterized by deep red colour and great taste of raspberry, ginger, rosemary, and a hint of garlic with the smokey tobacco-like finish. I am convinced that true wine lovers will recognize the quality of this wine. Limited edition of Esplanade's own Zinfandel 2019,  with a specially designed label, will be listed on Esplande's wine list and will be available to the restaurant guests for 430 kuna a bottle.

"It took years of scientific research and to prove that Zinfandel actually comes from these parts," said prof. dr. sc. Edi Maletić from the Agricultural Faculty, University of Zagreb.

Esplanade's restaurant is called Zinfandel after the varietal that was taken from Dalmatia to the USA a long time ago.

"It is exactly why it represents the interconnectedness of the cultures that meet in this hotel, in this restaurant and in our country, Croatia," said Max Krizmanić, the hotel's general manager, and one of the people most „responsible“ for this project.

He also said: "We are all extremely happy that it actually turned out to be top-quality wine. There are not many bottles available, but the ones that are, should be tasted and drank as soon as possible. This was also a perfect occasion for the media representatives to taste the new autumn menu created by the Zinfandel's chef Ana Grgić, and it is safe to say that they were more than delighted by the dishes served. They will be on the menu from the 29th of September, and they are nothing but delicious.

"The autumn menu is inspired by the season – and all the excellent ingredients that it offers – like corn, truffles, chestnuts, mushrooms...but I am also very proud of our own pickled vegetables because we have done it all by ourselves," said chef Ana Grgić.

All the vegetables come from small farms, but so does the meat like for example duck that comes from the famed Varaždin OPG Orehovec and goat cheese from OPG Moravec. For all who prefer steaks, there will be Kagoshima Wagyu steak on the menu, too. Desserts are numerous and tasty, main ingredients being orange, rhubarb, tangerine, chocolate and exquisite corn ice cream. 

Last but not least, welcome sparkling wine that was served at the very beginning was also Krauthaker's sparkling wine Julia. Official mineral waters for the occasion were Acqua Panna & S. Pellegrino. 

Photos: Esplanade Hotel Archives

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February 17, 2020 - Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar in Split will kick off a new event series dedicated to the art of conversation. 

Is there anything better than blending divine food and wine with great conversation?

Yeah, we didn’t think so either.

Now you can marry all three of the best elements in life on Thursdays in Split with the introduction of a new series at Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar. 

Namely, for the next three Thursdays, Zinfandel invites you, your chattiest friends and favorite listeners to join them for an evening of wine, food, and conversation.

But we promise this won’t be just any kind of conversation. This Thursday, February 20, you’ll get to speak with Dejan Nemčić, a professor of geography who holds classes on two continents! As part of the opening evening, find out about Dejan’s experience in Africa and what particularly impressed him on his travels.

The conversation continues with Tanja Mravak, a renowned writer whose stories about everyday life, emotions, friendship, and food will entertain guests on February 27, 2020. 

And on the first Thursday in March, Domagoj Jakopović (aka Ribafish) will tell you everything you need to know about the RokOtok project, which encourages children, young people and parents to spend more quality free time playing and talking. You can read more about the admirable project here. 

Admission is free and a selection of promotional drink prices will be on offer. How could you say no? Stay in the loop here.

Better yet, be sure to enjoy Zinfandel’s hearty winter menu while it lasts - and with this sunny weather, we’re not sure how much time we have left. 

Don’t miss out on bar bites featuring tempura sardines, mini burgers with caramelized onion and crispy pancetta, foie gras and hummus share platters, or hand-cut potatoes with pancetta. 

Or for starters, enjoy a rich tableside steak tartare or foie gras terrine, or dig into the house-made spaghetti with burnt butter, truffles and semi-fried tomatoes, the agnolotti with skuta cheese and burnt fig, or the ravioli topped with apricot cream, beetroot and grilled prawns. And while no appetizer list in Split would be complete without a creamy risotto, which Zinfandel offers with grana Padano and balsamic, you can also keep it easy by choosing Zinfandel’s cheese and charcuterie platters, too. 

The stars of the show are in the main courses of the menu, where you’ll find a rump steak with potatoes, pancetta, and bearnaise sauce, duck breast with a sour cherry demiglace, or a pork fillet wrapped in pancetta. The lamb shank is slow-cooked with potato mash and fava beans, the Hama fish baked with zucchini, leeks, carrot and posip, while the skuta-stuffed squid is decorated with semi-dried tomatoes and hummus. 

To complete your meal, satisfy your sweet tooth with a warm pumpkin cake, sticky date pudding, Sissy pancakes, or kadaif cannoli. 

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN’s dedicated page.

February 9, 2020 - Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, but do you know where you’re taking your special someone yet? Don’t fret, Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar in Split has you covered.

Valentine’s Day comes around once a year, and while it’s a silly Hallmark holiday for some, it is a big deal for couples looking for a foolproof way to celebrate their love. 

While holidays are meant to be carefree, Valentine’s Day has always carried an extra bit of weight. From choosing the right flowers and chocolates to making sure you’ve chosen a dinner location romantic enough. This year, however, you can throw your worries out the window.

Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar won’t let your Valentine’s date turn into a deal-breaker. 

Namely, this Valentine’s Day, Zinfandel has crafted a fail-safe, three-course menu fit for even the pickiest partner. 

Begin by choosing one of three appetizer options, from beef tartare to octopus with a cream of fired vegetables, white beans, romesco and salsa verde, or the cauliflower soup with chimichurri and roasted pistachio. 

For main courses, you and your loved one can choose from the lamb knuckles with potato cream, pickled onion, and broad beans, the pork filet wrapped in pancetta with polenta, broad beans, demi-glace, and caramelized pears, or the sea bass filet with a cauliflower cream, red quinoa, and young peas.

Finally, for dessert, try the kadaif cannoli with pastry cream, caramel and pistachio, or the chocolate soufflé with white chocolate crumble, vanilla ice cream, and raspberries. 

And the best part? All of this for just 220 kuna per person, with a glass of champagne, included. This time, February 14 won't break the bank!

There’s no better way to show how much you care this Valentine’s Day. Book a table by calling 021 355 135 and visit the Zinfandel Facebook page for more info. 

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN’s dedicated page.

November 17, 2019 - A look at Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar's 2019/20 winter menu. 

We have finally reached that special time of year when our favorite Split establishments warm us up with what’s in store for winter. And we’re confident that the chilly season ahead will be anything but bleak thanks to what Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar is preparing for its faithful patrons. 

Serving Split since 2013, Zinfandel has no time to disappoint their foodie fans, and their new winter offer confirms just that. 

Whether you’re into a glass of wine and light bites or a hot and hearty main course, Zinfandel has got you covered this season.

Beginning with the bar menu, which is anything but basic, Zindanfel is busting out tempura sardines, mini burgers with caramelized onion and crispy pancetta, foie gras and hummus share platters, or hand-cut potatoes with pancetta. 

For starters, enjoy a rich tableside steak tartare or foie gras terrine, or dig into the house-made spaghetti with burnt butter, truffles and semi-fried tomatoes, the agnolotti with skuta cheese and burnt fig, or the ravioli topped with apricot cream, beetroot and grilled prawns. No appetizer list in Split would be complete without a creamy risotto, which Zinfandel offers with grana Padano and balsamic. 

For those looking to keep things light, the cauliflower soup, Dalmatian style mussels, or vegan salad with beetroot, bulgar and smoked tofu will do. You can always choose Zindandel’s cheese and charcuterie platters, too. 

The stars of the show are in the main courses of the menu, where you’ll find a rump steak with potatoes, pancetta, and bearnaise sauce, duck breast with a sour cherry demiglace, or a pork fillet wrapped in pancetta. The lamb shank is slow-cooked with potato mash and fava beans, the Hama fish baked with zucchini, leeks, carrot and posip, while the skuta-stuffed squid is decorated with semi-dried tomatoes and hummus. 

To complete your meal, satisfy your sweet tooth with a warm pumpkin cake, sticky date pudding, Sissy pancakes, or kadaif cannoli. 

You can explore the entire Zinfandel winter menu on their website here and try it in Split today!  

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN’s dedicated page. 

May 6, 2019 - Whether you’re looking to brunch, munch, or have a proper meal out paired with wine, Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar in Split has you covered. 

After the release of Brasserie on 7’s new winter menu, we have yet another culinary treasure ready to wake you up this winter - Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar. 

Yes, we know it’s cold outside, and yes, we’re aware its hard to jump out of the comfort of your warm bed to get anywhere this winter, but trust us, Zinfandel will have you jumping for joy. 

The famous Split establishment known for its extensive selection of Croatian wines and fab foodie delights has rolled out a hearty new menu perfect for the chilly months ahead. 

For starters, grab your friends and enjoy their platter to share - complete with a selection of local cheeses and charcuterie, marinated roasted peppers, artichokes, pickled cucumbers, marinated olives, and house-made grissini and bread. 

Next up is Zinfandel’s tasting menu paired with Croatian wines. Care for the tartare steak with Crljenak Štafileo? Or Pag cheese with Postup? And better yet, why not try the house-made spinach angliotti or ’skuta’ ravioli with raisins, burnt fig puree, sage butter, and pine nuts? 

The bar menu is even better - and we think the beef burger or marinated pork ribs will do you just right. 

But now, the menu items to steal the show are Zinfandel’s feel-good hearty favorites. Seafood lovers will love the warm octopus salad and sea bass filet, and meat connoisseurs will gawk at the filet mignon or pork tenderloin with carrot, ginger, oyster mushrooms, caramelized onions, and dehydrated apples. The Jerusalem artichoke risotto boasts a cow cheese emulsion and smoked mussels, and the house-made spaghetti glows with caramelized butter, semi-dried tomatoes, truffles, and grand padano. 

And it’s not over yet. 

Those with a sweet tooth won’t be able to fight the urge of their sticky date pudding, warm pumpkin sponge cake, or lemon tart with walnuts, vanilla ice cream, meringue. 

Yes, Zinfandel has completely outdone themselves this winter, but what else did you expect? Book your next dinner at Zinfandel now! 

You can find the full Zinfandel menu here. 

To read more about Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar, follow TCN's dedicated page here. 

It’s been anything but a quiet summer at Split’s famous alleyway wine bar, Zinfandel. 

January 14, 2018, we are continuing our look at the foreign entrepreneurs of Croatia and hopefully bringing you some inspiration for the new year. This week we introduce you to Maria Mustapić and Korana Bučić from Sydney, who moved to Split to open a hostel and now have a small empire. One of the incredible success stories of two powerhouse women and it all started with an innocent comment from a friend...

The last week before Christmas and no doubt, a last-minute shopping panic. Something to consider - if you are going to spend money this Christmas, why not make sure it stays in local hands or goes to a good cause?