Krauthaker

Slavonija, Croatia

Krauthaker is one of the most influential family-run wineries in Croatia’s Slavonia region, founded in 1992 by Vlado Krauthaker on a single hectare in Kutjevo. Over the years, it has grown to around 32–45 ha of estate vineyards plus nearly 70 ha in cooperation. Located on the sun-drenched southern slopes of Mt. Krndija and Papuk, the vineyards benefit from protection against harsh winds, older vine density, and a terroir of sandy-sedimentary soils that bring vibrancy and minerality to the wines.
Krauthaker is best known for its flagship Graševina (Welschriesling), especially from its prestigious Mitrovac vineyard, producing crisp, mineral-rich whites with depth and elegance that have collected numerous international medals. Alongside this, the estate cultivates a broad palette of 25–44 varieties—ranging from Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay to Pinot Gris, Zelenac, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah, Nebbiolo, and Cabernet Sauvignon—underscoring its experimental spirit and commitment to native and international terroirs.
Farming is carried out by hand, often with traditional horse-assisted plowing and minimal chemical intervention, reflecting a deep respect for nature and sustainable practices. In the cellar, emphasis is placed on environmentally friendly techniques, crafting everything from dry to late-harvest and even Botrytis-affected dessert wines.
Vlado Krauthaker himself—a trained agronomist and oenologist—has earned numerous awards, including being named Croatian Winemaker of the Year, while his Chardonnay and Sauvignon have even been selected to serve in Lufthansa’s first class cabin. Today, under his and daughter Martina's guidance, Krauthaker stands as a hallmark of quality, innovation, and terroir expression in Slavonia's revival as a world-class wine region.