Rating 93
Style Red
Variety
Vintage 2020
Appellation
Croatia
ABV 14.5%
Price $45.00  Buy This Wine
Print Shelf Talker
Reviewed By
Reviewed 2026-10-20

Perfect For

Drinking Outside the Lines, Steak Dinner, Wine And Cheese Night

Drink If You Like

Cabernet Franc, Merlot , Zinfandel

Zlatan Otok Crljenak 2020 Review

Zinfandel came from afar; it traveled all the way to California from Croatia, where it is called Crljenak or Tribidrag. We love celebrating the origins of one of our most revered varieties, now uniquely American. This wine comes from one of Croatia’s most historic and critically acclaimed wineries, based on the beautiful island of Hvar. This bottling may need either some extra time in the bottle or a decanter, but eventually reveals aromas of savory earth, autumnal spices, and a subtle plum note. The palate is full-bodied but balanced, with rich, ripe fruit and grippy tannins.

As of 2024, VinePair no longer participates in any affiliate programs. All links included in our content are as a convenience to our readers, not for earning commission — we receive no monetary value from them. Learn more about our tastings & review department here!

93
POINTS
Zlatan Otok Crljenak 2020
Zinfandel came from afar; it traveled all the way to California from Croatia, where it is called Crljenak or Tribidrag. We love celebrating the origins of one of our most revered varieties, now uniquely American. This wine comes from one of Croatia’s most historic and critically acclaimed wineries, based on the beautiful island of Hvar. This bottling may need either some extra time in the bottle or a decanter, but eventually reveals aromas of savory earth, autumnal spices, and a subtle plum note. The palate is full-bodied but balanced, with rich, ripe fruit and grippy tannins.

Reviewed On: 10-20-2026
93
POINTS
Zlatan Otok Crljenak 2020
Zinfandel came from afar; it traveled all the way to California from Croatia, where it is called Crljenak or Tribidrag. We love celebrating the origins of one of our most revered varieties, now uniquely American. This wine comes from one of Croatia’s most historic and critically acclaimed wineries, based on the beautiful island of Hvar. This bottling may need either some extra time in the bottle or a decanter, but eventually reveals aromas of savory earth, autumnal spices, and a subtle plum note. The palate is full-bodied but balanced, with rich, ripe fruit and grippy tannins.

Reviewed On: 10-20-2026