Crljenak Kaštelanski
Crljenak Kaštelanski (/tsrʎěnak kaʃtělanski/; Croatian for “red of Kaštela”) is a red wine grape variety native to the Dalmatian coast of Croatia. It is genetically identical to the Californian variety Zinfandel and the Italian Primitivo, a connection confirmed through DNA profiling in the late 1990s and early 2000s[1]. Historically grown in small quantities around the town of Kaštela near Split, the grape was on the verge of extinction before renewed interest in its heritage led to conservation and replanting programmes[2].
Background
Crljenak Kaštelanski has been cultivated along the central Dalmatian coast for centuries, although historical documentation is scarce and often fragmented[3]. The variety is believed to have been widely planted in the 18th and 19th centuries before declining due to phylloxera and changing market demands. By the late 20th century, only a handful of vines remained, prompting efforts by Croatian viticulturists and international researchers to locate and preserve the variety[4]. The confirmation of its genetic link to Zinfandel brought global attention, enhancing its cultural and oenological significance.
Characteristics
Crljenak Kaštelanski is a red grape variety producing wines of deep colour, medium to high tannin content, and moderate acidity[5]. Aromatic profiles often feature dark berries such as blackberry and black cherry, along with spice notes and, in warmer vintages, hints of dried fruit[6]. The grape is relatively vigorous, requiring careful vineyard management to control yields and achieve optimal phenolic ripeness. Its thin skins make it somewhat susceptible to rot in humid conditions, while its early budding can expose it to spring frost risk.
Use in winemaking
Crljenak Kaštelanski is vinified both as a varietal wine and in blends, often contributing depth of colour, ripe fruit character, and structural tannins[7]. In Croatia, it is typically produced as a dry red wine, with styles ranging from fresh and fruit-driven to more concentrated examples aged in oak[8]. Modern plantings have increased since its identification as the genetic equivalent of Zinfandel and Primitivo, leading to renewed interest among winemakers and consumers.
See also
References
- ↑ UC Davis, "DNA Analysis Reveals Zinfandel’s Croatian Origin", ucdavis.edu.
- ↑ Maletić et al., "Crljenak Kaštelanski – Povijest i obnova izvorne sorte", Agronomski glasnik, 2004 (Croatian).
- ↑ Žulj Mihaljević, Vinske sorte Hrvatske, Golden marketing – Tehnička knjiga, 2015 (Croatian).
- ↑ Decanter, "Crljenak Kaštelanski: The Original Zinfandel", decanter.com, 2020.
- ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012.
- ↑ Wine Folly, "Crljenak Kaštelanski Wine Guide", winefolly.com.
- ↑ Žulj Mihaljević, Vinske sorte Hrvatske, Golden marketing – Tehnička knjiga, 2015.
- ↑ Decanter, "Crljenak Kaštelanski: The Original Zinfandel", decanter.com, 2020.