Hvar Wine Guide
2,400 years of winemaking. Indigenous grape varieties. World-class wines. Discover Hvar's remarkable wine culture.
A Wine Island
Hvar has been making wine for over 2,400 years, since ancient Greek settlers planted the first vines on the Stari Grad Plain (now a UNESCO World Heritage site). Today, the island produces some of Croatia's most acclaimed wines from indigenous grape varieties you won't find anywhere else in the world.
Why Hvar wine is special: The combination of intense sunshine (2,700+ hours yearly), rocky limestone soil, and sea breezes creates a terroir that produces grapes with remarkable concentration and character. The steep hillside vineyards, some at dramatic angles, limit yields but maximize flavor.
Indigenous Varieties
Plavac Mali
Red GrapeCroatia's premier red grape and Hvar's most famous variety. Produces bold, full-bodied wines with deep flavors of dark berries, Mediterranean herbs, and spices.
Flavors
Dark cherries, blackberries, pepper, Mediterranean herbs, earthy finish
Pairs With
Grilled meats, lamb peka, aged cheeses, octopus
Fun Fact
Closely related to Zinfandel and Primitivo
Bogdanuša
White GrapeIndigenous white variety meaning "gift from God." Grown primarily on the Stari Grad Plain and around Jelsa. Historically consumed during religious festivals.
Flavors
Citrus, green apple, peach, floral notes, bright acidity, mineral finish
Pairs With
Fresh seafood, grilled fish, light appetizers, on its own as aperitif
Fun Fact
Unique to Hvar and surrounding islands
Top Wineries to Visit
Our recommended wineries for tastings and tours
Zlatan Otok (Plenković Winery)
Sveta Nedjelja
Iconic winery with underwater tasting room
Founded by the legendary Zlatan Plenković, this is Hvar's most famous winery. Their "Zlatan Plavac Grand Cru" is world-renowned. The Bilo Idro wine bar, built partly underwater, offers a unique tasting experience.
Tomić Winery
Jelsa
Romanesque cellar, aged wines
Known for combining traditional methods with modern innovation. They hold Plavac Mali for 5+ years before release to soften tannins. Their unique Romanesque-style cellar adds atmosphere to tastings.
Carić Winery
Vrboska
Preserving local grape heritage
Family winery dedicated to preserving Hvar's indigenous varieties. Their "Plovac Ploški" is exceptional. Vineyards in steep areas near Ivan Dolac produce grapes with intense character.
Duboković Winery
Jelsa
Boutique organic wines, candlelit tastings
Family-run boutique winery producing handcrafted organic wines. Famous for "Medvid" and "Medvjedica" - wines named after the family patriarch. Candlelit tastings paired with local delicacies.
More Wineries Worth Visiting
Hvar Hills Winery
Various locations
Plavac Mali & Bogdanuša
Plančić Winery
Vrbanj
Bogdanuša
Ventus Winery
Vrisnik
Organic wines
Lacman Family Winery
Hvar
Natural wines
Wine Tasting by Boat
Combine stunning coastal scenery with wine tasting. Our wine tasting boat tours visit accessible coastal wineries, include swimming stops, and offer wine and food pairings on board.
Wine Tasting ToursWine FAQs
What wine is Hvar famous for?
Hvar is famous for Plavac Mali, a bold red grape related to Zinfandel, and Bogdanuša, an indigenous white grape whose name means "gift from God." The island has over 2,400 years of winemaking history.
Can you visit Hvar wineries without a car?
Most wineries require a car or taxi to reach. However, some offer pickup services, and our wine tasting boat tours visit accessible coastal wineries like Zlatan Otok while including scenic sailing.
Which Hvar winery is best for tastings?
Zlatan Otok (Plenković) offers a unique experience with their underwater tasting room. Tomić Winery has beautiful Romanesque cellars. For intimate family experiences, try Duboković or Carić.
When is harvest season in Hvar?
Grape harvest typically runs from late August through September. Visiting during this time offers unique experiences, but wineries are busier. Off-season visits may offer more personal attention.