Tucked in an elbow of the Adriatic between Istria and the Croatian mainland is the windswept island of Krk, where the indigenous Zlahtina grape produces light, refreshing white wines that are in high demand when summer travelers arrive on the Croatian coastline each year. On the red soil of the inland plain near the medieval town of Vrbnik, Anton Katunar and his son produce perhaps the most highly regarded examples of Zlahtina, in addition to Syrah-based reds.

A blend of 50% Syrah and two local black varieties, the Riserva is a medium-bodied wine of neutral oak, with round fruit supported by a healthy acid and tannin structure. The nose is red cherries and plums, sweet vanilla and spice. A wine for the lamb that is local to Krk, plus burgers, sausage or steak.