Ivan Enjingi’s Venje 2015 named best Croatian white wine
- by croatiaweek
- in Food & Wine
Ivan Enjingi, a name synonymous with excellence in Croatian winemaking, has once again solidified his legacy.
At the recent Festival of the 100 Best Croatian Wines, held on 25 January 2025 at the Sheraton Zagreb Hotel, Enjingi’s Venje 2015 was crowned the best white wine, highlighting the superior craftsmanship of this renowned Slavonian winery, HoRreCa PRO reported
Enjingi has long been a leader in the industry, being the first Croatian to win the prestigious Decanter award.
His success at this festival reflects his commitment to quality, making Venje 2015 stand out for its complexity, balance, and enduring finish.
The festival also featured other noteworthy winners, including Šember’s Pavel 2019 sparkling wine, Coletti’s Neuburger 2018 amber wine, and Baraka’s Prisbus Riserva 2018, which won best red wine.
How the Best Were Chosen
The selection process began with nominations from 25 sommeliers who identified top candidates across six categories: sparkling, rosé, white, amber, red/black, and dessert wines.
A panel of ten expert judges then conducted anonymous tastings to determine the winners, while visitors participated in a separate poll to choose their favourites.
Here are the top wines by category:
Best White Wines:
1. Enjingi Venje 2015
2. Šain Marečić Pošip Sv. Ivan 2023
3. Antunović Graševina Tradition 2021 & Coletti Chardonnay Oro Bianco 2023
Best Red Wines:
1. Baraka Prisbus Riserva 2018
2. Legovina Cuvée Noir 2015
3. Tomaz Barbarossa Superior 2017
Best Dessert Wines:
1. Kutjevo Graševina Ledena Berba 2018
2. Đurinski Traminac Ledena Berba 2015
3. Iločki Podrumi Traminac Izborna Berba Prosušenih Bobica 2019
Enjingi’s Legacy and Philosophy
Enjingi’s journey into winemaking began in his youth, fuelled by passion and perseverance. Despite lacking formal training, he transformed family vineyards into a world-class winery.
By 1981, his wines gained recognition when Zagreb’s Hotel Esplanade adopted them as house wines.
A pioneer of organic winemaking since 1972, Enjingi’s philosophy is rooted in sustainability and respect for nature. His vineyards are chemical-free, relying on traditional methods and natural fertilizers.
“Quality comes from respecting the soil and embracing what nature provides,” he notes.
Venje, Enjingi’s signature wine, epitomizes his innovative approach. Made from a blend of Graševina, Rhine Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon, and Traminac, it has won numerous awards, including gold at the Decanter competition, where it was named Europe’s best wine.
Enjingi’s success is a testament to Croatia’s growing prominence in the global wine industry. With events like the Festival of the 100 Best Croatian Wines attracting international visitors, the country is cementing its reputation as a premier wine destination.