If you’re looking to explore the best of Hvar’s wine scene, consider joining a guided wine tour that takes you through the island’s most prestigious wineries. Many tours include transportation, expert guides, and food pairings, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Hvar, Croatia's sunniest island, is a stunning destination that offers a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler. If you're a history buff, a foodie, or a wine lover, Hvar has something special waiting for you. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Hvar tours, from wine tours and food & culinary tours to history and heritage tours. Read on to find out how you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful island.
Hvar, a sun-soaked island in the heart of the Adriatic, is not only known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife but also for its rich winemaking heritage. With a tradition dating back over 2,400 years, Hvar boasts some of the finest wineries in Croatia, producing world-class wines from indigenous grape varieties. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a good glass of wine, exploring Hvar’s wineries is an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the best wineries on the island that you should not miss.
Carić Winery – Passion for Indigenous Varieties
Located in the picturesque village of Svirče, Carić Winery is a family-owned establishment known for its commitment to preserving local grape varieties. Their Plovac Ploški, a high-quality Plavac Mali wine, is a must-try for red wine lovers. Visitors can enjoy personalized tastings, learning about the history and passion behind each bottle. Carić wines are crafted with great care, making them a perfect souvenir from Hvar.
Duboković Winery – Boutique & Organic Wines
For a more intimate and unique experience, Duboković Winery in Jelsa is a must-visit. This family-run winery is famous for its handcrafted, organic wines that capture the essence of Hvar’s terroir. Their Medvid and Medvjedica Plavac Mali wines are particularly beloved by wine enthusiasts. One of the highlights of visiting Duboković is the candlelit wine tasting experience, where guests can savor wines paired with homemade olive oils and local delicacies.
Tomić Winery – A Legacy of Excellence
Located in Jelsa, Tomić Winery is one of the most renowned wine producers on Hvar. Founded by Andro Tomić, a passionate winemaker with decades of experience, this winery combines traditional Dalmatian winemaking techniques with modern innovations. The highlight of a visit to Tomić Winery is the wine tasting in their Romanesque-style wine cellar, where you can sample exquisite wines such as the Veliki Plavac Mali and the popular Beleca, a refreshing white blend.
Ventus Winery – A New Standard in Quality
Located in the beautiful countryside of Hvar, Ventus Winery is a newer addition to the island’s wine scene but has quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality production. Ventus specializes in Plavac Mali and Pošip, focusing on organic farming and sustainable winemaking. With stunning vineyard views and a welcoming atmosphere, this winery offers an unforgettable tasting experience that highlights the best of Hvar’s viticulture.
Zlatan Otok Winery – Award-Winning Wines
Established by the late Zlatan Plenković, Zlatan Otok Winery is one of Croatia’s most celebrated wineries, consistently earning international recognition. Situated near the charming village of Sveta Nedjelja, this winery offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Zlatan Otok is best known for its Zlatan Plavac Grand Cru, an elegant red wine made from the Plavac Mali grape, grown on steep, sun-drenched vineyards. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience at their unique seaside wine cellar, where wines are stored underwater for optimal aging.
Pavičić Winery – Tradition Meets Innovation
A rising star in Hvar’s wine scene, Pavičić Winery in Vrbanj is gaining recognition for its dedication to quality and sustainability. This family-run winery focuses on indigenous varieties, particularly Plavac Mali and Bogdanuša, a crisp and aromatic white wine native to Hvar. Their modern approach to winemaking, combined with deep-rooted traditions, results in wines that truly reflect the island’s unique character.
Plančić Winery – Pioneers of Hvar Winemaking
One of Hvar’s longest-standing wineries, Plančić Winery has been producing wines since 1919. This family-run winery specializes in indigenous grape varieties, particularly Bogdanuša and Parč, a rare red variety unique to the island. Their commitment to sustainability and tradition ensures that each bottle showcases the best of Hvar’s terroir.
Why You Should Visit Hvar’s Wineries
Visiting Hvar’s wineries is more than just a wine tasting experience—it’s a journey through history, tradition, and the breathtaking landscapes of the island. Each winery offers something unique, from seaside cellars and candlelit tastings to stunning vineyard views. Whether you prefer robust reds or refreshing whites, Hvar’s wines promise to impress your palate.
Plan Your Wine Tour in Hvar
Ready to sip your way through paradise? If you're a wine enthusiast looking to explore the crème de la crème of Hvar's vineyards, then grab your glass (and maybe a friend or two) and join one of the island’s top wine tours! Not only will you visit some of the most prestigious wineries on the island, but you’ll also have an expert guide at your side, spilling the secrets of Hvar’s rich winemaking history. With transportation included, you can say goodbye to the stress of navigating winding roads — just sit back, relax, and taste the island’s finest.
Expect the full wine experience: exquisite food pairings that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance, plenty of time to explore and take photos, and of course, delicious wines that might just make you rethink your current favorite bottle. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply someone who loves a good glass (or three), Hvar’s wine tours promise an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you toasting to your next adventure on this beautiful island.
Cheers!