Host 2026 : Varaždin
Varaždin, Croatia
For the first time in the history of the Sauvignon Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (CMB), Croatia will host the most prestigious competition dedicated to Sauvignon Blanc wines. The 2026 edition of the Sauvignon Selection by CMB will take place from April 7 to 9 in Croatia.
The 2026 Sauvignon Selection by CMB will take place from 7 to 9 April in Varaždin, Croatia.
Varaždin
Varaždin is a distinguished historic city in northern Croatia, located along the Drava River near the borders with Slovenia and Hungary. Renowned for its remarkably preserved baroque architecture, refined urban atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage, Varaždin represents one of the most elegant continental destinations in the country.
In the 18th century (1756–1776), Varaždin served as the capital of Croatia, a period that significantly shaped its architectural and cultural identity. Today, its historic centre features baroque palaces, churches, monasteries, and carefully maintained squares. The iconic Old Town fortress stands as a symbol of the city’s historical continuity and prestige.
Modern Varaždin is a administrative, cultural, and economic hub, recognised for its high quality of life, safety, and organisation. The city is widely associated with music, arts, and refined gastronomy, offering an inspiring setting for international professional events. Its strategic location—less than one hour from Zagreb—ensures excellent accessibility for international guests.
Varaždin County as a Wine Region
Varaždinska County forms part of the Central Uplands wine region of Croatia, an area characterised by rolling hills, diverse soils, and a long-standing viticultural tradition. The region’s vineyards are situated on sun-exposed slopes at moderate altitudes, benefiting from significant diurnal temperature variations that preserve freshness, aromatic intensity, and varietal purity.
The terroir combines clay, marl, and sandy soils, contributing to structure, minerality, and elegance in the wines. The climate is predominantly continental, producing wines known for vibrancy, precision, and balance.
The region is particularly recognised for white grape varieties, including:
- • Sauvignon Blanc
- • Graševina (Welschriesling)
- • Riesling
- • Pinot Gris
- • Yellow Muscat
Sauvignon Blanc from Varaždinska County is distinguished by its expressive aromatics—citrus notes, green apple, elderflower, and subtle herbal nuances—supported by lively acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish. The style is typically elegant, precise, and well-suited to contemporary international markets that value freshness and terroir transparency.
Sauvignon Blanc in Croatia
Status as of 31 December 2025
Source: ARKOD – Croatian Agricultural Parcel Identification System
- Planted Area: 316.85 hectares
- Total Number of Vines: 1,666,826
- National Ranking: 9th most planted grape variety in Croatia
Position within the National Context
Sauvignon Blanc represents one of the most internationally recognised varieties cultivated in Croatia. While indigenous varieties such as Graševina dominate in total surface area, Sauvignon Blanc holds a strategically important position due to its global market relevance and strong export potential.
Stylistic Profile in Croatia
Croatian Sauvignon Blanc is primarily grown in continental regions, where significant diurnal temperature variation preserves aromatic intensity and natural acidity. The wines are typically characterised by:
- • Fresh citrus notes
- • Green apple and gooseberry
- • Elderflower and herbal nuances
- • Vibrant acidity and precision
- • Clean, mineral-driven finish
The variety plays an increasingly important role in positioning Croatia within the international premium white wine segment.
Top 20 Grape Varieties in Croatia
Status as of 31 December 2025
Source: ARKOD – Croatian Agricultural Parcel Identification System
In recent years, the region has undergone significant qualitative advancement, with investments in modern cellar technology, sustainable vineyard management, and a stronger focus on origin and site expression. Alongside boutique family wineries, Varaždinska County is steadily developing its wine tourism offering, combining viticulture with gastronomy, heritage, and scenic landscapes.
As such, the region represents a dynamic and emerging continental wine destination, capable of hosting and inspiring high-level international wine events.
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Join the competition
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