Martinje, held on the day of St. Martin, is a period awaited year-long by wine admirers, especially those looking to try the first young wine, after its ‘christening’
As in many winemaking nations, Martinje holds a special place in the hearts of vine growers, winemakers and consumers alike. The period centred around the day of St. Martin sees the official turning of must into young wine celebrated around the country, but most heartily in the continental parts of Croatia.
We bring you some of the best known celebrations, although many more can be found in almost every locality which produces wine:
Križevci and Koprivnica
The Martinje customs and traditions by the Križevci Statutes and Koprivnica Rules in merry company in vineyards and catering establishments have a long history. The Great Martinje Play is a meeting of around thirty ‘Martinje bishops’ from all over Croatia. They choose among them the Great Master of Martinje Ceremonies, the first among equals, who receives the seal and bishop’s hat. In a unique ritual they ‘christen’ the must into wine and award the owner a ‘christening certificate’ as proof the pagan must was transformed into a fine wine drink to be consumed gladly. Visitors can enjoy the programme and excellent drinks offered by winemakers from Croatia and abroad. The 12th Martinje Play will take place on November 4.
Dugo Selo
Martinje in Dugo Selo is a traditional wine, culture and entertainment manifestation. The choreography is traditionally performed by the Dugo Selo Preporod society. It is held on Martin Breg, next to the town cellar and vineyard, alongside St. Martin’s church. Dugo Selo winemakers bring their wines to be ‘christened,’ while visitors can taste them and vineyard sausages, a traditional local offer.
The event will begin on November 4 and 5, with the 24th Meeting of Tambouritza Orchestra, the must will be ‘christened’ on November 10, with concerts on November 10 and 11.
Sveti Martin na Muri
Although must is ‘christened’ anywhere where there are any vines or wine cellars, the real Martinje in Međimurje region takes place in Sveti Martin na Muri. This year the programme begins on November 4 with an exhibition by the Fine Art Republic, while on November 11 after the morning mass comes the blessing of the wine with roasted geese, chestnuts and mulled wine, with a competition in cooking the Martinje wine goulash set to begin at noon. Visitors can enjoy visiting wine cellars in the entire area, with many tastings of young wine and must ‘christening’ demonstrations.
Ivanić Grad
Only a half hour drive from Zagreb (with bus transport specifically for Martinje celebrations), you can join manifestations and celebrations on November 10 in the Kezele rural tourism from 19h, or on November 11 in the Petek excursion area at the same hour.
Zagorje Region
One of the notorious places to celebrate Martinje is Zagorje, the region north of Zagreb. Known for its rolling hills adorned with many vineyards, any visitor to any catering establishment can find a Martinje celebration with a ‘christening’ demonstration, live band, great food and unlimited young wine supply. Just make sure you have accommodation booked.
