Island wines: Croatia's hidden treasures

Island Wines: Dive into a magical sea of ​​sun-drenched vineyards, age-old traditions and delicious flavours 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 charming Hvar to historic Korčula and mysterious Vis, each island reveals 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 are a must-visit destination for wine lovers. This enchanting region stretches along the Adriatic coast and includes several islands ready to be explored. For wine lovers, Dalmatia is the ideal place to enjoy some of Croatia’s most refined and complex wines. From sun-drenched vineyards on steep hillsides to 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 of Korčula, a jewel in the Croatian archipelago, invites you on an enchanting wine journey full of flavours and traditions. With its centuries-old wine-growing history and breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes, Korčula is a true oasis for wine lovers. The favourable 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 Posip-grape to the elegant and robust red wines like the famous Plavac Mali, every sip takes you on a tasteful journey of discovery. Let yourself be seduced by the charming wineries of Korčula, where passionate winemakers share their craftsmanship and invite you to taste of their award-winning creations.

Explore vineyards stretching across rolling hills and enjoy breathtaking views of the azure Adriatic Sea. Korčula is not only home to exceptional wines, but also warm hospitality and a rich cultural heritage. Ready to discover the refined world of Korčula wines? Embark on this unforgettable wine tour and let your senses be amazed. Also check out our extensive article about the top 10 wineries on the beautiful island of Korčula.

Famous wineries on Korčula

• Blato 1902: Blato 1902, one of the oldest wineries on Korčula, 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 with a rich 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 DUTCH 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 of Korčula, it thrives in the island's sun-drenched vineyards. Posip-wines are known for their golden color, floral aroma's 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 Korčula's Old Town, also known as "Little Dubrovnik". Visit the impressive St. Mark's Cathedral and enjoy the panoramic views 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 island's culinary delights 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 your meal with a glass of Korčula's finest wine for an unforgettable culinary experience.
• Experience the fascinating performance of the Moreska sword dance, a traditional Korčula ritual that dates back centuries. The Moreska is a cherished cultural heritage of the island and a spectacle not to be missed.
• Taste not only the wines, but also the delicious ones olive oil and products with local ingredients on the island of Korčula. Visit a small producer and experience the authentic flavors. The olive oil of Korčula is on the list of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) by the European Commission, which means that it is of superior quality and is produced according to traditional, authentic methods. With as many as ten olive mills and almost a thousand olive farms, Korčula is 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, Hvar's winemakers 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 red wines as 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 dedication to tradition, the Plančić family cultivates and nurtures indigenous grape varieties unique to Hvar. Their white wines show vibrant flavors of Bogdanuša and Parč, while the red wines the powerful features 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-run business with a long tradition of producing exceptional wines. Their extensive portfolio includes red and white wines, at which Plavac Mali, Posip and the traditional Dalmatian dessert wine Prošek are among the specialties. A visit to their wine cellar offers 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, particularly on the Stari Grad plain. It is an indigenous Croatian grape variety. Wines made from Bogdanuša grapes are usually dry, have a greenish-yellow to golden color and exhibit floral notes. aroma's and hints of peach. Wineries such as Plančić are known for their excellent Bogdanuša wines, which truly 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 a deep red wine. The unique terroir of Hvar contributes to the distinctive character of Darnekuša wine. The wines are often praised for their freshness and aromaof blackcurrants, 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 en in touch with to meet 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 white wines, complex red wines or refreshing rosé wines, 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. The impressive Stina Visitor Centre 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 Posip-grape, 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 Puglia in Italy, California in the United States, and Dalmatia in Croatia, where it originates. Stina Tribidrag is recommended.
• Plavac Mali: A remarkable grape variety from Croatia, Plavac Mali, thrives on the island of Brač. This robust red wines have a deep color, firm tannins and notes of dark berries, dried fruit and hints of Mediterranean herbs. Look for bottles from renowned wineries such as Stina Winery, who are 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 Vugava-wines, with their floral aroma's and fresh, lively 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 trial their organic and sustainably produced wines. Enjoy the picturesque setting and the 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 Fish 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!

Neck

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 Žlahtina-wines. Taste the must-try wines of Krk, with the indigenous grape varieties Žlahtina, which offer crisp, aromatic wines with fresh flavours, and Sansigot, a pearl of picturesque Vrbnik with floral aroma's 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 the native variety called 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.
• Visit 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. Žlahtina-wines are crisp, aromatic and known for their fresh and fruity flavours, with notes of apple, tropical fruit, citrus and refreshing acidity.
• Sansigot: A rare indigenous grape variety from the enchanting island of Susak (Sansego). This wine has a medium body with floral notes. aromaand 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 seeking natural beauty and a rich winemaking tradition. From Hvar with its sun-drenched vineyards to Korčula 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:

• Korčula: Discover the old Posip and Grk wines from Korčula, which date back to Greek times. Taste these unique indigenous grape varieties and learn more about the island's wine 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, trial the local wines and discover the passion of the winemakers.