Wine Month in Osijek-Baranja County begins in early May, to go on all the way until the start of July...

In Slavonia and Baranja, we have a habit of counterbalancing every hardship with something good. And so, it was wisely decided: let’s balance the long and weary January with a cheerful, fruitful month mid-year, and let that be the Wine Month. And since we like to take our time in Slavonia and Baranja, our version of Wine Month stretches over three. Take that, January!

An exciting time

As soon as February rolled around, we had reasons to celebrate: the European Network of Wine Cities (RECEVIN) awarded Osijek-Baranja County the prestigious Dionisio title of European Region of Wine. This marked the beginning of an exciting, dynamic, wine-soaked year for our wine capital.

Thanks to its favourable geography and climate, Slavonia and Baranja are home to the ideal soil for many grape varieties. The county boasts four winegrowing regions — Baranja, Erdut, Đakovo, and Feričanci — home to prized whites like Graševina. This perfect accompaniment to fish stews and barbecues is now making a grand comeback, with a shiny new reputation. It is quickly gaining popularity, and will impress even the toughest of critics. Some other nearly forgotten local varieties like Kadarka are enjoying a kind of renaissance as well. It’s an exciting time for oenology in this golden land, and the best, we’re certain, is yet to come.

For seasoned hedonists and beginners alike

Every year’s Wine Month in Osijek-Baranja County runs from early May to the start of July, bringing back some beloved events and introducing a few new ones for true hedonists and those only looking to become one.

Early May – Valpovo hosts the Cheese & Wine Festival in the Baroque Prandau-Normann Castle’s courtyards. Expect local cheese and wine producers, rich gastronomy, and a lively music program.

Mid-May – Osijek Wine & Walk returns for all lovers of active holidays and top-quality wines. The picturesque walking tour through Osijek is accompanied with tastings at selected locations. Participants get to learn about the city's rich history while enjoying top-quality wine.

Late May – Wine & Art Evening in Osijek (Večeri vina i umjetnosti) transforms the city into the region’s capital of culture and oenology. This event combines exhibitions by local artists with wine tastings, creating a unique atmosphere that celebrates creativity and tradition.

End of May – Zmajevac becomes the wine capital once again for the annual Vinatlon, featuring wine-themed games, workshops, and the prestigious Danube Champion Award. Local wines and great music await in the iconic gorges (Surduk) of Baranja, home to the unique wine cellars known as Gatori.

Start of June – The Wine & Tambura Fest (Vino i tambure) Topolje and Gajić brings traditional music and wine together for a truly authentic Baranja winery experience. While enjoying the always impressive performances by tamburitza bands, visitors can taste wines from local winemakers as well as the area’s specialties.

Early June – Baranja Wine & Walk in Kneževi Vinogradi takes visitors through the stunning Baranja. This walk offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Baranja hills and its rich wine offering. Participants will enjoy beautiful views and taste wines right where the finest drops originate.

Mid-June – Open Cellar Days in Đakovo Wine Region, with wineries in Mandićevac and Trnava welcoming visitors to explore their wine-making process and sample the finest vintages.

Second half of June – Bonavita Festival in Trnava, as part of the Open Cellar Days, celebrates the long-standing viticultural tradition of the region, bringing wine tastings, music, and hearty food.

But Wait - There’s More!

Yes, we’d love it if Wine Month lasted even longer, but the celebrations continue later in the year:

September: Wine & Bike Tour Erdut, the Wine Marathon (Vinski Bor Maraton) in Zmajevac, and the Frankovka Festival in Feričanci

October: Vino.grad and by the ancient “Slavonian” Romans inspired Vinalia as part of the HeadOnEast Festival in Osijek and the Golden Wineend (Zlatni Wineend) in Trnava. These events are just a taste of the rich wine offering of our region.

We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating this wine season, discovering all the flavours and stories that Slavonia and Baranja have to offer.

Written by: Katarina Anđelković