Island wines: Croatia's hidden treasures

Island wines: dive into an enchanting sea of ​​sun-drenched vineyards, ancient traditions and mouth-watering flavors in Croatia! Explore the secrets of the Croatian islands, where the natural beauty of the Adriatic Sea merges with a rich winemaking tradition dating back to ancient times. From the charming Hvar to the historic Korcula and the mysterious Vis, each island revealing its own story and unforgettable wines to discover.

Explore the vineyards, trial the indigenous grape varieties and let yourself be taken on a journey full of authentic and unforgettable wine experiences. Prepare yourself for an unprecedented journey through the Croatian archipelago, where every drop of wine tells a story and every sip brings you closer to the essence of these enchanting islands.

Below we highlight the different aspects of the Croatian islands related to wine, including the winemaking traditions, wineries, indigenous grape varieties and the unique wine experiences that visitors can enjoy.

The best Croatian islands for wine lovers

With its impressive winemaking history, Croatia and its Dalmatian coast is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. This enchanting region stretches along the Adriatic coast and includes several islands just waiting to be discovered. For wine lovers Dalmatia the ideal place to enjoy some of Croatia's most refined and complex wines. From the sun-drenched vineyards perched on steep slopes to the charming wineries, every corner of the Dalmatian coast exudes a unique and authentic appeal.

This article will explore the best Croatian islands for wine lovers, revealing their unique range of vineyards, winemaking traditions and must-see vineyards and wineries. These islands have been inhabited for thousands of years and have witnessed the rise and fall of several civilizations.

From the Greeks to the Romans, the Austro-Hungarian crown, the tribulations of two world wars and even the era of communism, the islands have acted as witnesses of history. Nevertheless, there is one constant factor that has persisted throughout its diverse history: the love of wine.

Korcula

The island Korcula, a jewel in the Croatian archipelago, invites you to an enchanting wine journey full of flavors and traditions. With its ancient wine-growing history and breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes, Korcula a true oasis for wine lovers. The favorable climate, fertile soil and cooling sea breeze create the perfect conditions for growing unique indigenous grape varieties that reflect the island's character.

From the refreshing White wine made from the local Posipgrape to the elegant and robust red wines such as the famous Plavac Mali, every sip takes you on a tasteful journey of discovery. Let yourself be seduced by the charming wineries of Korcula, where passionate winemakers share their craftsmanship and invite you to taste of their award-winning creations.

Explore the vineyards that stretch over rolling hills and enjoy breathtaking views of the azure blue Adriatic Sea. On Korcula you will not only find extraordinary wines, but also warm hospitality and a rich cultural heritage. Ready to enter the sophisticated world of Korcula's wines to discover? Step aboard this unforgettable wine tour and surprise your senses. Also view our extensive article about the top 10 wineries on the beautiful island of Korčula.

Famous wineries Korcula

• Blato 1902: Blato 1902, one of the oldest wineries on Korcula, is known for its rich history and high-quality wines, including the famous Posip. Located in the village Blato, amid lush vineyards, the wines are produced according to traditional methods, with hand-picked grapes for optimum quality. Visit Blato 1902 for a wine experience steeped in history and exceptional quality.
• Zure: Located in Lumbarda, Zure Winery is a family-run winery that has been producing high quality wines since 1996. They have received several prestigious awards and are known for their excellent Grk, Posip en Plavac Mali wines. The associated restaurant offers delicious home-cooked dishes using local ingredients.
• Bire: This winery in Lumbarda is known for its high-quality wines, especially the indigenous grape varieties Grk and Plavac Mali. They pride themselves on their organic and ecological approach to viticulture and offer tastings with food to match.
• Čara: The picturesque winery Čara is located in the village of the same name, on the sunny south side of the island. With vineyards on the slopes of the village, they grow the local grape varieties Posip en Plavac Mali. The fresh and fruity Posip from Čara, with its bright yellow color and floral citrus aroma, is the ideal choice for a summer evening on the terrace.
• Nerica: A small family winery that has been focusing on cultivating vineyards in the picturesque Čara area for fifteen years. The manual care of the vineyards results in increasingly better grape quality.
• Cebalo: A family winery in Lumbarda, known for the indigenous white grape variety Grk. They offer regular wine tastings and a chance to learn more about the winemaking process.
• Black Island Winery: Located in Smokvica, this winery was established in 2018 and is known for its high quality wines, especially the Posip-variety. The vineyards are located on the outskirts of Smokvica and offer an ideal terroir for grape growing. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience and gain an insight into Croatia's island life.
• Krajančić: Located in Zavalatica, Krajančić Winery is known for its organic and biodynamic viticultural practices. Especially them Posipwines are highly regarded for their complexity and elegance.

Absolutely recommended: wines from indigenous grape varieties

• Posip: A prominent indigenous grape variety from Korcula, thrives in the sun-drenched vineyards of the island. Posipwines are known for their golden color, floral aromas and refreshing acidity.
• Grk: This unique and ancient grape variety thrives mainly in the sandy soil around Lumbarda. Grk wines have a unique and fresh character with notes of citrus and white flowers.
• Plavac Mali: This Red wine perfectly combines warmth, fruitiness and full richness. Making aromatic notes of prunes and well-balanced acidity Plavac Mali wines much appreciated. Blato 1902 Plavac Mali and sour Plavac Mali his recommendations.

Hidden gems and insider tips

• Explore the cobbled streets of Old Town Korcula, also called “Little Dubrovnik”. Visit the impressive Cathedral of St. Mark and enjoy the panoramic view from the city walls. Don't miss the birthplace of Marco Polo.
• Rent a kayak or take a boat trip to explore the island's secluded coves and pristine beaches, such as Vaja Bay, Pupnatska Luka, and Bacva Bay.
• Taste the culinary delights of the island after a day of wine tasting. Visit traditional konobas or Michelin-starred restaurants and enjoy local specialties such as black risotto, octopus peka and perfectly grilled fresh fish. Pair the meal with a glass of the finest wine Korcula for an unforgettable culinary experience.
• Experience the fascinating performance of the Moreska sword dance, a traditional Korcularitual that dates back to centuries ago. The Moreska is a treasured cultural heritage of the island and a spectacle not to be missed.
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  Taste not only the wines, but also the delicious ones olive oil and products with local ingredients on the island Korcula. Visit a small producer and experience the authentic flavors. The olive oil of Korcula is on the list Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) from the European Commission, which means it is of superior quality and made using traditional, authentic methods. With no less than ten olive mills and almost a thousand olive farms Korcula one of the few regions in Croatia that olive oil of this quality.

Croatian island of Korcula is known for its great island wines and olive oil

Hvar

Known for its vibrant nightlife, lavender fields and crystal clear waters, the island of Hvar is also a paradise for wine lovers. Hvar has a long and prestigious wine-growing tradition for thousands of years. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, the soil composition with plenty of sun and gentle sea breezes, it is the ideal environment for growing exceptional indigenous grape varieties, resulting in wines of excellent quality and character.

Proud of their heritage, winemakers on Hvar masterfully combine modern winemaking techniques with age-old traditions to produce a remarkable range of wines that reflect the island's unique terroir. Whether you enjoy refreshing white wines like the acclaimed Posip and Bogdanuša, or powerful and silky reds like Plavac Mali from renowned appellations such as Ivan Dolac or Sv. Nedjelja, every sip tells a story of passion, dedication and deep connection to the land.

Discover the island's vineyards, with their terraced slopes sloping down to the azure sea, and visit charming wineries that invite you to enjoy tastings of their best vintages.

Famous wineries of Hvar

• Plenković “Zlatan Otok” Winery: Located in Sveta Nedjelja, Plenković Winery is one of the most famous wineries in Croatia. With a beautiful tasting room and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, and vineyards cascading down steep slopes, this winery is a must-visit. They are known for their prized Plavac Maliwines, and a tour offers the opportunity to experience the winemaking process up close.
• Plančić Winery: Plančić Winery is a tribute to a rich family history dating back to 1919 and still thriving today. With an unwavering commitment to tradition, the Plančić family cultivates and nurtures native grape varieties that are unique to Hvar. Their white wines show vibrant flavors of Bogdanuša and Parč, while the reds show the powerful characteristics of Plavac Mali and reflect the ancient Darnekuša grape.
• Duboković Winery: Located in Jelsa, Duboković Winery is owned and run by Ivo Duboković, a leading boutique wine producer in Croatia. The winery offers a unique tasting experience in their magical cellars, where visitors can enjoy tastings in an atmospheric setting lit by candles, surrounded by wine barrels and bottles. They produce several wines including red and orange wines, some of their most famous labels being Medvid and Medvjedica.
• Tomić Winery: Located in Jelsa, Tomić Winery is a family business with a long tradition of producing exceptional wines. Their extensive portfolio includes red and white wines, where Plavac Mali, Posip and the traditional Dalmatian dessert wine Prošek are among the specialties. A visit to their wine cellar offers an insight into their traditional winemaking techniques.

Absolutely recommended: wines from indigenous grape varieties

• Plavac Mali: Known as the king of Croatian red wines, is Plavac Mali a powerful and full-bodied wine that thrives in the Dalmatian wine region. Look for bottles from renowned wineries such as , acclaimed for their exceptional expression of Plavac Mali.
• Bogdanuša: A white grape variety that grows on the island of Hvar, specifically on the Stari Grad plain. It is an indigenous Croatian grape variety. Wines made from Bogdanuša grapes are mostly dry, have a greenish-yellow to golden color and display floral aromas and hints of peach. Wineries such as Plančić are known for their excellent Bogdanuša wines, which really reflect the taste of the Hvar terroir.
• Parč: The golden yellow white grape variety has a specific nutmeg taste. It is made from the indigenous Parč grape variety, which is grown exclusively on Hvar. Try the Plančić Ager and Ager Selection labels, powerful wines made from Bogdanuša and Parč grape varieties.
• Posip: Another remarkable white grape variety, Posip, produces full and opulent wines. Look at Posipwines from producers such as Plenković and Tomić Wijnhuis, known for their dedication to quality and careful winemaking techniques.
• Darnekuša: An ancient, rare red grape variety specifically associated with the island of Hvar. The grape is often blended with another local grape variety called Plavac Mali, resulting in deep red wine. Hvar's unique terroir contributes to the distinctive character of the Darnekuša wine. The wines are often praised for their freshness and aromas of black currants, cherries and spices.

Hidden gems and insider tips

• Be sure to visit the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where vineyards have been grown for over 2400 years. Take a leisurely stroll through this historic landscape and explore the ancient stone walls and vineyard plots that still produce grapes.
• Take part in one of the many wine festivals on the island, such as the Hvar Wine Festival, or book one of the Hvar Wine Tours. These events and tours offer the opportunity to experience a wide selection of Hvar's wines taste and connect with local winemakers.
• Hire an expert local guide who can provide insight into Hvar's wine culture, introduce you to hidden wineries and provide in-depth knowledge of the island's winemaking traditions.

Brac

Welcome to the enchanting island of Brač, where the art of winemaking merges with untouched natural beauty. Located in the Adriatic Sea, Brač is an oasis of peace and serenity for wine lovers looking for a unique and authentic experience. The island is known for its rugged landscapes, shimmering pebble beaches and the famous Zlatni Rat, a naturally formed beach point that juts out into the azure waters.

Visit the scenic wineries of Brač and be enchanted by the warm hospitality and the distinctive flavors of the island wines. Taste of the award-winning wines and learn about the traditional winemaking processes passed down through generations. As you walk through the vineyards, you will be surrounded by the beautiful landscape and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.

Let yourself be seduced by the secrets of Brac wines and discover the story behind each grape variety that thrives on this unique island. Whether you are a lover of refined whites, complex reds or refreshing rosés, Brač has something for everyone.

Explore the natural wonders of Brač, relax on secluded beaches and enjoy delicious gastronomy that pairs perfectly with the local wines. Step into the world of island wines and let Brač surprise you with its authentic charm and tasteful treasures.

Famous wineries of Brač

• Stina Winery: Located on the waterfront of Bol, next to Zlatni Rat Beach, Stina has breathed new life into the languishing Agricultural Cooperative of Bol since taking over in 2009. This remarkable winery produces some of the finest Plavac Mali, Posip, Vugava and even Tribidrag wines throughout Dalmatia. Stina's impressive visitor center welcomes wine lovers from far and wide.
• Senjković Winery: Located in the picturesque village of Dračevica, Senjković Winery is a family-run business focused on preserving the island's winemaking heritage. Their focus on organic and sustainable practices is evident in their wines, particularly their Plavac Mali and the limited edition Senjković Rosé. A visit to Senjković offers an authentic connection to Brač's winemaking tradition.

Absolutely recommended: wines from indigenous grape varieties

• Posip: Brač is home to the celebrated Posipgrape, known for its aromatic and refreshing white wines. Posipwines have a pale golden color and offer delicious notes of citrus, stone fruits and a subtle floral character. Wineries such as Tomić and Nenad Duboković are known for their exceptional Posip-wines.
• Vugava: Although originally from the island of Vis, Stina Winery produces Vugavawines you absolutely must try.
• Tribidrag (aka Zinfandel and Crljenak): A red grape variety grown in notable regions such as Apulia in Italy, California in the United States and Dalmatia in Croatia, where it originally comes from. Stina Tribidrag is highly recommended.
• Plavac Mali: A remarkable grape variety from Croatia, Plavac Mali, thrives on the island of Brač. These robust red wines have a deep, firm colour tannins and notes of dark berries, dried fruit and hints of Mediterranean spices. Look for bottles from renowned wineries such as Stina Winery, known for their exceptional selection of Plavac Mali from the best Brač appellations.

Hidden gems and insider tips

• To really immerse yourself in Brač's wine culture, consider joining a guided wine tour. Local tour operators such as Brač Wine Tours offer curated experiences that showcase the best wineries on the island and give visitors the opportunity to taste a wide variety of wines. taste, including rare and limited editions.
• Brač hosts several wine festivals throughout the year, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the island's wines in a lively atmosphere. The Grape and Wine Festival in October attracts locals and tourists alike and offers a vibrant celebration of Brač's winemaking traditions.

Fish

Welcome to the idyllic island of Vis, where the wines and wine culture tell an enchanting story dating back to ancient times. Located in the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, Vis is a true paradise for wine lovers looking for a unique and authentic experience. Surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of sheer cliffs, hidden coves and lush vineyards, this remote island offers fertile soil and a mild Mediterranean climate ideal for growing grapes of character.

Here, amidst the green hills and fragrant pines, native grape varieties such as Vugava en Plavac Mali, and are transformed with passion and dedication into wines that reflect the essence of the island. Taste the elegance and complexity of the white Vugavawines, with their floral aromas and fresh, vibrant flavours. Or let yourself be enchanted by the robust and earthy tones of the red Plavac Maliwines, which bring fullness and depth to every sip.

Delve into the rich wine culture of Vis by visiting the local wineries, where you will receive a warm welcome from passionate winemakers. They are happy to share their knowledge and love of the island's wines, while you enjoy tastings of carefully selected vintages. Let yourself be carried away by the unique charm of Vis and indulge your taste buds with the delicious wines produced here.

On the island of Vis you will experience an unforgettable journey through the rich wine culture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and hospitality. Savor every sip and be amazed by the treasures this hidden gem in the Adriatic has to offer. Here are some tips and suggestions for exploring the wineries and experiencing the authentic charm of Vis island

Famous wineries of Vis

• Taste the wines of the Vislander winery, which are known for their selection of Plavac Maliwines and the native Vis variety Vugava. Visitors are invited to experience the unique terroir of Vis and take a sensory journey.
• Discover the exceptional Plavac Maliwines from Bunčić Winery, produced with carefully selected grapes from the vineyards of Voščice and Smokovo. Toni Bunčić's passion for winemaking also extends to natural cosmetics.
• Visit Lipanović Winery, located in an old submarine bunker, and taste their organically and sustainably produced wines. Enjoy the picturesque decor and charm of the winery.
• Experience Senjanović Winery's dedication to producing exceptional Plavac Maliwines. This winery has played an important role in viticulture on the island and is one of the top vineyards of Vis.

Absolutely recommended: wines from indigenous grape varieties

• Vugava: A delicate white variety with citrus notes, ripe apricot and Mediterranean herbs.
• Plavac Mali: A robust red variety with rich flavors of dark berries, hints of spice and an earthy character.

Hidden gems and insider tips

• Explore the pristine beaches of Vis such as Stiniva Beach and Srebrna Beach, both of which are breathtakingly beautiful.
• Take a boat trip to the Blue Cave (Modra špilja) on the nearby island of Biševo, known for its mesmerizing blue hues.
• Visit Fort George, a 19th-century fortress with panoramic views of the island.
• Explore the ancient Roman thermal baths and archaeological sites scattered around the island to discover its rich history.
• Taste the delicious culinary offerings of Vis Island, including traditional dishes such as octopus peka, lamb under the bell and fish stew (brodetto).

Enjoy your adventure on Vis Island and discover the island's unique wine experiences and beauty!

Krk

Welcome to the enchanting island of Krk, where the wines and wine culture reflect a rich tradition of more than two thousand years. With its favorable Mediterranean climate, abundant sunshine and cooling sea breeze, Krk offers ideal conditions for growing grapes. The diverse soil composition, ranging from limestone to red clay, adds a unique character to the wines produced here.

Explore the Krk wineries, such as the boutique winery Šipun Winery, with its rich tradition of grape growing and focus on indigenous varieties such as Žlahtina. Also visit Ivan Katunar Winery, where you can enjoy various wines such as Chardonnay, Žlahtina and Rose', as well as other local products such as olive oil and rakia. Discover the family-owned Toljanić Winery, known for its high-quality Žlahtinawines. Taste Krk's must-try wines, featuring the indigenous grape varieties Žlahtina, which offers crisp, aromatic wines with fresh flavors, and Sansigot, a pearl of picturesque Vrbnik with floral aromas and red forest fruits.

Be amazed by the hidden gems of Krk, such as the exceptional olive oil production, the charming town of Vrbnik with its narrow streets and traditional taverns, the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, and the untouched landscapes with the Biserujka cave and the viewpoints on the top of Obzova. On the island of Krk you will discover a world of wine, culture and natural beauty that will awaken your senses and capture your heart. Here are some tips and suggestions for exploring the wineries and experiencing the beauty of Krk Island:

Well-known wineries of Krk

• Visit Šipun Winery in Vrbnik, a boutique winery with a rich tradition of grape growing. Taste their high-quality wines, especially called the native variety Žlahtina. The winery emphasizes sustainable practices and indigenous grape varieties.
• Discover Ivan Katunar Winery in Vrbnik, a family business that produces several wines, including Chardonnay, Žlahtina, Sansigot, Rose' and Muskat. Enjoy wine tasting and cellar tours and try their extra virgin olive oil, rakija and Medica.
• Pay a visit to Toljanić Winery, a small family-run winery located in the Vrbnik Valley. Taste their high quality Žlahtinawines and discover why they have gained recognition in the region.

Absolutely recommended: wines from indigenous grape varieties

• Žlahtina: Enjoy this native white grape variety grown exclusively on Krk Island. Žlahtinawines are crisp, aromatic and known for their fresh and fruity flavours, with notes of apple, tropical fruit, citrus and refreshing acidity.
• Sansigot: A rare native grape variety from the enchanting island of Susak (Sansego). This wine has a medium body with floral aromas and fresh red and dark forest fruits.

Hidden gems and insider tips

• Explore the olive groves on Krk Island and learn about the ancient traditions of olive growing. Participate in olive oil tastings and discover the excellent quality of the local olive oil.
• Visit the charming town of Vrbnik, perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Explore the narrow streets, visit the historic Vrbnik Castle and enjoy local dishes in traditional taverns.
• Don't forget to enjoy the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters of Krk Island. Take some time to sunbathe, swim and participate in water sports activities such as snorkeling, diving or kayaking.
• Go on a hiking adventure and discover the island's pristine landscapes. Visit the enchanting Biserujka cave or take a hike to the beautiful viewpoints on the top of Obzova, the highest peak of Krk island.

Enjoy your time on Krk island, discover the delicious wines and enjoy the breathtaking nature and culture that the island has to offer!

Conclusion on wine from Croatian islands

The Croatian islands offer a unique and authentic experience for wine lovers looking for natural beauty and a rich wine tradition. From Hvar with its sun-drenched vineyards to Korcula with its ancient Grk wines, each island in the Croatian archipelago has its own viticultural treasures and indigenous grape varieties.

Visit one of these Croatian islands:

• Korcula: Discover the old Posip and Grk wines from Korcula, dating back to Greek times. Taste these unique native grape varieties and learn about the island's winemaking traditions.
• Hvar: Visit the sun-drenched vineyards of Hvar and enjoy the local wines including the famous Plavac Mali wines, known for their quality. Also explore the beautiful natural landscapes of the island.
• Krk: Experience the long tradition of winemaking on the island of Krk, with its favorable Mediterranean climate and diverse soil composition. Visit wineries such as Šipun Winery, Ivan Katunar Winery, and Toljanić Winery to taste high-quality wines taste, especially native varieties such as Žlahtina and Sansigot.

Each island has passionate winemakers eager to share their craft and welcome visitors for wine tastings and tours. These islands offer a journey of discovery for wine lovers looking for a unique and authentic experience.

In short, the Croatian islands are an ideal destination for wine lovers, where natural beauty and a rich wine tradition come together. Explore the different islands, taste the local wines and get to know the passion of the winemakers.