Martinje: Croatia's Celebration of New Wine and St. Martin

Every year on 11 November, Croatia joins much of Europe in celebrating Martinje, a day dedicated to St. Martin and the transformation of grape must into wine. It marks the moment when the year's young wine is officially tasted and blessed, a tradition with deep roots in the country's wine-growing regions and embraced by locals and visitors alike.

What is Martinje?

Martinje falls on the feast day of St. Martin of Tours, a Roman soldier who became a bishop and is the patron saint of winemakers, among others. In Croatia, the date is linked to the end of the grape harvest and the first tasting of the new wine, which has been fermenting since autumn. The saying goes that on Martinje, 'must becomes wine' – a transformation celebrated with joy and plenty of food.

How Martinje is celebrated

The centrepiece of Martinje is the 'baptism' of the new wine. In villages and towns across Slavonia, Istria, Dalmatia and the Croatian Uplands, people gather in wine cellars, family homes or public squares. A host, sometimes dressed as a bishop, blesses the wine and declares it ready to drink. This is often accompanied by music, singing and dancing, with tamburica bands providing the soundtrack in the continental regions.

Many families and groups of friends organise their own private celebrations, while some areas hold larger public events. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and if you are invited to join, it is considered polite to bring a bottle of wine or a small gift.

What to eat and drink

Martinje is as much about food as it is about wine. The traditional dish is roast goose or duck, often served with mlinci – a type of thin, flat pasta that soaks up the rich juices. The pairing of goose with young wine is a custom that goes back centuries, and you will find many restaurants and households serving it on the day. Chestnuts, autumn vegetables and seasonal desserts like strudel or pumpkin pie also make an appearance.

Of course, the star is the new wine – typically a young, slightly fizzy white or a fruity red, depending on the region. It is usually served generously, and toasting is a key part of the ritual. You will often hear the phrase 'Živjeli!' (cheers) repeated throughout the day.

Tips for joining in

If you are living in Croatia or visiting in early November, keep an eye out for local Martinje events advertised in community centres, tourist boards or on social media. Public celebrations are often open to everyone and may include food stalls, live music and plenty of wine tastings. Dress for the weather, as many events take place outdoors or in unheated cellars, and pace yourself – the wine is young and can be surprisingly strong.

For a more intimate experience, consider asking Croatian friends or neighbours if they celebrate Martinje. It is a time of hospitality, and many people are happy to share their traditions with newcomers. Learning a few words like 'Sretan Martinje!' (Happy St. Martin's Day) will go a long way.

Whether you are a wine lover or simply curious about Croatian customs, Martinje offers a delightful way to connect with the local culture and taste the fruits of the season.