If you needed another reason to toast this summer—Croatia’s winemakers just handed you 255 of them. The results of the 2025 Decanter World Wine Awards are in, and let’s just say: Croatia came to impress.

Often hailed as the Oscars of the wine world, the Decanter Awards are the most influential and prestigious wine competition on the planet. With a record-breaking number of entries and an elite panel of 248 global wine experts—22 of whom are Master Sommeliers and 72 Master of Wine holders—this year’s event was more competitive than ever. And yet, Croatia didn’t just hold its own. It thrived.

From the Adriatic Coast to Award-Winning Glory

Croatian wineries secured an impressive 14 gold medals, up from 11 last year—a clear sign that the country’s wine scene is not just growing, but flourishing. Even more impressive? A whopping 255 silver medals were awarded to Croatian wines, reinforcing what locals have long known: this small but mighty country produces some truly exceptional bottles.

But let’s talk about the standout star. The Benvenuti brothers from Motovun did what many only dream of: they earned a platinum medal. Their dessert wine San Salvatore 2021 was awarded a stunning 97 points, placing it in the highest echelon of global wines. It’s a sweet triumph for Istria and a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, craft, and the kind of magic that only happens when tradition meets innovation.

Gold Across the Regions

The list of golden winners reads like a guided tour through Croatia’s diverse wine regions. From the bold Plavac Mali by Testament (2018) to the refined elegance of Santa Lucia Malvazija by Kozlović (2018), the gold medalists span Dalmatia, Istria, and beyond. There’s Pošip from Casa Boschi, GRK from Tasovac and Zure, and even a sparkling Brut that’s proving Croatian fizz deserves your attention too.

Whether it's the crisp Maraština from Fiolić (2020) or the opulent Syrah by Hvar Hills (2022), each wine tells a story—not just of its terroir, but of a culture that celebrates nuance, character, and a strong sense of place.

A Seat at the Global Table

Let’s not forget the homegrown talent sitting on the other side of the table. Three Croatian wine experts were invited to judge at this year’s Decanter Awards, further cementing Croatia’s role not just as a wine-producing nation, but as a thought leader on the international stage.

The awards are more than just shiny medals. They’re validation. They’re visibility. They’re a nudge to the rest of the world that says, “Hey, it’s time you start paying closer attention to what’s happening in Croatia’s vineyards.”

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So whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just someone who likes their glass half full, now is the perfect time to explore Croatian wines. Grab a bottle, pour yourself a glass, and raise it to a country whose winemaking future looks as golden, and as platinum as ever. Cheers!