Karleuša Winery

Karleuša Winery, a small garage winery beneath Kastav, represents a true haven of passion for winemaking, producing unique and authentic labels under the name “Vin de Garage.” With an annual production of only 1,500 bottles, their wines are crafted with dedication, local heritage, and creativity—free from the pressures of mass production and market trends. Each bottle emerges from their small garage, where wine is handled with utmost care, aging in wooden barrels and ceramic amphorae, giving every wine a character that reflects the beauty of Kvarner and Istria.
Although they don’t own vineyards, Karleuša Wines carefully selects premium grapes from local growers, which they then transform into wines that radiate the spirit of the region. Their selection includes four different labels, each with its own story. The Vrbnik Žlahtina, “Plemenita,” reflects the elegance of the Kvarner terroir, offering a gentle yet memorable taste that embodies local tradition. The Istrian Malvasia, called “Stara Dama” (Old Lady), goes through a carefully crafted maceration process in an Italian amphora, SIRIO, which imparts a distinctive depth and warmth, adding complexity to every sip.
The winery’s uniqueness is further showcased in the Vranac from the Neretva Valley, named “Nono” (Grandfather), which, after seven days of maceration, matures in stainless steel. This process gives it a particular freshness and authentic character, and it has received numerous awards, including second place at the prestigious Gračišće wine competition, where it surprised the audience by surpassing many established producers. The final gem in their collection is “La Famille”—a harmonious blend of the Portuguese grape variety Touriga Nacional from the island of Krk and Istrian Merlot, resulting in an intriguing wine with rich aromas that celebrate the unity and beauty of diverse terroirs.
Karleuša Winery is more than just a winery; it’s a story of passion for winemaking, attention to detail, and creating unique flavors that honor Kvarner and Istria in a modern yet traditional way.