Dubrovnik and its surroundings hold some of Croatia’s most captivating wine stories. While the region is renowned for its rich history and breathtaking scenery, it also boasts an extraordinary winemaking tradition. The diversity of wine experience here is a true revelation for wine enthusiasts.
The Wine Story of Dubrovnik and Its Surroundings: Konavle and Peljesac
Two Dubrovnik-neighboring wine regions, Konavle and Peljesac, each with a unique character, complement one another and weave a rich narrative embodying the essence of southern Croatia through a glass of wine. Their distinct terroirs and winemaking traditions reflect the broader story of Croatia - a small country with an astonishing variety of grape-growing landscapes.
Konavle: Elegance and Authenticity
At Croatia’s southernmost tip, Konavle enjoys a distinctive blend of Mediterranean and continental climates, creating conditions for grape cultivation which has been present for centuries. However, winemaking in Konavle faced a major setback during Croatia's Homeland War in the 1990s, leaving vineyards in need of restoration.
Dubrovnik Malvasia, a traditional and historically significant variety once prized by the Republic of Dubrovnik, was on the verge of extinction. Thanks to the dedication of local vintners, this rare grape has been revived yielding wines with refined aromas and balanced acidity - offering a sip of the region’s deep-rooted winemaking heritage.
While the Konavle Valley dominates the landscape, vineyards are also scattered across hillsides and other micro-locations. The valley’s microclimate presents challenges for winemakers particularly those cultivating the delicate Dubrovnik Malvasia, due to variations in temperature and soil composition. Nevertheless, Konavle wines are recognized for their quality and authenticity.
Beyond Dubrovnik Malvasia, Konavle is home to Marastina (also known as Rukatac), a traditional Dalmatian white variety often used for fresh, light-bodied wines. Posip, originally from the island of Korcula, has also taken root in Konavle, producing elegant, aromatic wines. Merlot, perhaps the most widely planted red variety, thrives in this terroir, while Plavac Mali, though less intense than on Peljesac, offers a softer expression and is frequently used in blends. Vranac, a bold red variety native to Montenegro and not so common in Croatia, flourishes in Konavle’s vineyards. International grapes like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon have also found their place here, adapting seamlessly to the local terroir.
Peljesac: The Kingdom of Plavac Mali
Historically, winemaking was the backbone of Peljesac’s economy, but in the 19th century, devastating vine diseases forced many families to emigrate. Despite these hardships, Peljesac persevered and became one of Croatia’s most prominent wine regions.
Peljesac is the undisputed stronghold of indigenous Plavac Mali, a robust red grape that is a direct descendant of Zinfandel - a variety native to Croatia, locally known as Crljenak Kastelanski or Tribidrag. While Zinfandel is often fruit-forward with softer tannins, Plavac Mali is renowned for its bold structure, deep minerality, and complex flavors of ripe fruit and spice, making it a favorite among lovers of powerful reds.
The finest Plavac Mali vineyards are found in Dingac and Postup, though they have distinct topographies. Dingac features some of the steepest, sun-drenched slopes in Croatia, where vines struggle against rocky terrain and extreme conditions, producing wines of remarkable intensity and longevity. In contrast, Postup has a more moderate incline, with gentler slopes that still benefit from excellent sun exposure yielding wines with a softer, more elegant profile compared to the rugged power of Dingac.
Meanwhile, the Ponikve area is gaining increasing recognition for its outstanding quality. The vineyards here produce some of the most significant wines in Croatia, known for their exceptional structure, complexity, and ageing potential. In particular, the Milos family, championing a philosophy of natural winemaking with a deep understanding of grape potential and terroir, has played a crucial role in elevating Ponikve's reputation as a top-tier winegrowing position.
Peljesac is also home to exceptional white wines. Posip, originally from Korcula, has thrived here, producing full-bodied wines with rich fruit aromas and pronounced minerality. Rukatac (Marastina), traditionally known for its light, refreshing profile, has revealed new depths in Peljesac’s terroir; in the hands of visionary winemakers, like the Milos Family, this variety now expresses complexity and richness previously unseen.
One of Peljesac’s most fascinating wine stories is that of Miljenko Mike Grgic, a Croatian-American winemaker who helped put California wines on the world map. His Chardonnay won international acclaim at the legendary 1976 Paris Tasting, proving that American wines could rival the finest from France. Despite his success abroad, Grgic remained deeply connected to his homeland, returning to Croatia to help revive its winemaking industry. By establishing a winery in Peljesac, he cemented the region’s reputation and contributed to its modern-day success.
Exploring Dubrovnik's Wine Regions - A South Croatia Wine Journey
Though Konavle and Peljesac offer distinct wine experiences, together they form a compelling narrative of southern Croatia - a story of elegance and power, tradition and innovation, land and sea. These wine-growing areas offer the opportunity to taste wines found nowhere else in the world, all while enjoying breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage.
For true wine lovers, exploring these regions provides deeper insight into the world of winemaking - from engaging conversations with winemakers to stories of harvest challenges and triumphs. Every glass reflects the terroir and passion of the people behind it.
If you are intrigued by exploring Dubrovnik's wine regions and want to savor the best wines in the area, our private wine tours to Konavle and Peljesac offer an expertly guided journey through these fascinating regions.
Join us on a private journey through the vineyards of Konavle and Peljesac, where each glass tells a story of tradition, terroir and passion. Choose your perfect wine tour and immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of southern Croatia!
