Croatia produces some of the best wine in the entire world. Cam and I think it produces the best. Every region has it’s own varieties but the most wonderful sparkling wines come from the Plešivica region, just outside of Zagreb. We finally made it out there this summer for Cam’s Father’s Day gift and it is STUNNING! It feels a bit like you’ve stepped back in time to a simpler way of life. Vineyards grow all along the steep hillsides dotted with small farms, wineries and family-run restaurants. We got to spend the morning with the Tomac family, who produce Croatia’s top sparkling wines (they are incredible, their Amfora especially!!) but the best part was just getting to hang out with them at their home and vineyard.
It’s a family business – all the young cousins were working on a Saturday. Their family has been making wine here for over 200 years. Thank you, Martina, Tomislav and Jasna for spending time with us in the midst of all the hard work that your family does to produce such amazing wines! Martina also sent us home with a bottle of her homemade elderflower cordial, which is pure joy to me!
Martina’s parents own a restaurant a little further up the Plešivica called Restoran Karlo — where they grow and raise everything they serve. The food was amazing and so plentiful that even with our designated garbage disposal (ha- Cam) we could not get through it all. There are only a few tables out on the deck that overlook this gorgeous scene and the handwritten menu changes according to what Martina’s parents are cooking that day. Her Mom even kindly helped Gracie eat the homemade chicken soup (so, so good) while Cam and I juggled Georgia and John Shea and tried to eat ourselves.
The people, wine, food and gorgeous land of the Plešivica is absolutely in our top 10 favorite spots in Croatia.
Jessica says
We loved the Tomac you shared with us — thank you! We even ended stopping on our way out of Zagreb to buy some more 🙂
Amanda says
Oh yay!! I’m so glad we got to spend that time with you guys (even if we were both sick!)
Julie says
I don’t think I’ve ever come across Croatian sparkling wine, but will be on the lookout for some Tomac! The color looks really nice and right up my alley! Thank you for sharing!
Amanda says
You’re welcome!! 🙂 Wish you could buy it here– it’s almost half the price when you buy it straight from the family!
Katie Cook says
I want to pinch those delicious cheeks on Georgia!! Oh my goodness, so precious. Can’t wait for her and Avonlea to meet:) xoxo
Amanda says
ME TOO!!!
brittany says
wine and scenery and sweet babes… that is THE life!! your beautiful photos capture it perfectly, as always!!!
Anna says
Was so excited to see your post on Cup of Jo! I have loved following along with your little family and keeping up with your travels!
Lanna says
mmmmm my mouth is watering over all that good looking wine and food!! I love that up until the last minute you guys are still exploring and visiting new places… with three under three. ROCK STARS!!!
LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK!
Lanneybear
PS. I’m in a glass cage of emotion!
Amanda says
rockstars orrrr….. absolutely out of our minds?! More often than not we think the latter!
Bark twice if you’re in Milwaukee!!