Historic Moment for Regional Wine Scene: Suvad Zlatić Becomes First Master Sommelier from Former Yugoslavia

Suvad Zlatić has achieved a historic milestone for the region's wine and hospitality industry, becoming the first Master Sommelier from the former Yugoslavia. He earned the prestigious Master Sommelier Diploma from the Court of Master Sommeliers Europe, a qualification held by only 299 people worldwide since 1969.

Forbes has described the Master Sommelier exam as one of the world's toughest, noting that there are more astronauts than Master Sommeliers globally. Zlatić's success is particularly meaningful for Croatia and its neighboring countries, which boast ancient wine traditions, indigenous grape varieties, and a growing gastronomic and restaurant scene. This achievement provides a unique opportunity to elevate the international profile of regional wines and sommeliers.

"I don't see this title as just a personal recognition. I see it as an opportunity to help the region I come from," Zlatić stated. "Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have wines, people, and a gastronomic culture that deserve much greater international visibility. My goal is to build bridges between our region and the highest global wine circles."

Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zlatić spent part of his childhood in Croatia before building his career in Austria. This diverse background, combining regional heritage with Central European professional discipline and international sommelier standards, shapes his unique story of perseverance and identity. His journey to this title spanned over twelve years, involving international competitions, thousands of hours of study, and intensive preparation.

Zlatić has an impressive record, including 3rd place at the ASI Best Sommelier of Europe & Africa Championship 2021 and 9th place at the ASI Best Sommelier of the World 2023. He also won the Ambassadeur du Champagne d’Europe in 2015 and the Open Hungarian Grand Prix Sommelier in 2024. In his next career phase, Zlatić plans to leverage his expertise and international network to foster the development of the wine scene in Croatia and the wider region, including educational initiatives.

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I don't see this title as just a personal recognition. I see it as an opportunity to help the region I come from. Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have wines, people, and a gastronomic culture that deserve much greater international visibility. My goal is to build bridges between our region and the highest global wine circles.