SAMPLE THE BEST KORCULA WINE & GO WINE TASTING!
Korcula is not only known for its historic towns and beautiful beaches but also for its wines. The island is home to unique grape varieties and exceptional wines, including Grk and Pošip.
Korcula Island offers wine lovers an authentic experience to explore vineyards, taste exquisite local wines, and learn about the island’s deep-rooted winemaking traditions.
In this guide, discover everything you need to know about Korcula’s wine culture, from the best wines to our top tips about wine tasting. You will find plenty of opportunities to sample Korcula wine!
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About Korcula Wine
Why Korcula is a Must-Visit for Wine Lovers
With over 40,000 winemakers in Croatia, Korcula boasts its own share of excellent wineries and vineyards. Known predominantly for its white wines, the island also offers some exquisite reds.
Korcula’s winemaking legacy dates back to ancient times, with influences from the Greeks, Venetians, and local Croatian culture blending to create something truly special. The island is particularly known for Grk and Pošip, two indigenous varieties that offer a distinct taste of Korcula’s unique terroir.
So, which Korcula wines should you try when visiting the island?
Grk
This indigenous grape is almost exclusively grown in Lumbarda, thriving in sandy soils and is a highlight of our wine-tasting tours on Korcula.
Traced back to the 3rd century BC when the Greeks brought the vines to Korcula, Grk is known for its crisp acidity, flavours of citrus and stone fruit, and slightly bitter aftertaste. It has an unusual characteristic of having only female flowering parts, requiring another grape variety to pollinate the vines.
Learn more about the special Grk wine and why it’s almost exclusively grown in Lumbarda during a wine tour.
Pošip
Found primarily in the island’s central villages of Čara and Smokvica, Pošip is a regional variety celebrated for its crisp acidity and dry profile. Pošip is renowned for its full-bodied flavour with notes of apricot and almond.
Discovered in the mid to late 19th century, it was the first white wine protected under Croatian law.
Rukatac (also called Maraština)
This light-coloured white wine grows predominantly in the centre of Korcula Island. It can be blended with Pošip to enhance its quality. Rukatac is known for its fresh and aromatic profile, making it the perfect choice for a summer glass of wine!
Plavac Mali
A staple on our wine-tasting tours on Korcula, Plavac Mali is the most commonly grown red grape in Dalmatia. This dry wine is known for its robust flavours and high alcohol content, as well as its ties to American Zinfandel.
In Lumbarda, it is grown alongside Grk vines to assist in their pollination. Plavac Mali offers a deep, rich taste with hints of dark berries and spices, making it a favourite among red wine lovers.
Where to go Wine Tasting on Korcula
Map of Korcula Wineries, Wine Bars and Wine Shops
Visit Wineries and Vineyards on Korcula
The majority of wineries on Korcula Island are family-owned and have been passed down through generations, some for as long as 300 years. Most of the vineyards are located in Lumbarda, Smokvica, and Cara.
Wine Tasting Tips
To get the most out of your wine-tasting experience on Korcula, keep these tips in mind:
- Some wineries recommend making reservations, especially in the busy season, though many only require bookings for larger groups. Wineries are small, so if you turn up when it is busy, be patient and be prepared to wait.
- Double-check winery hours beforehand, as they can vary by season. Most wineries update their hours on Google for easy planning.
- Be sure to bring cash since many wineries do not accept card payments for tastings or purchases.
- Savour the experience! Wine tasting on Korcula is all about relaxation—sit back, order a tasting with some snacks, and take in the surroundings.
Wineries and Vineyards in Lumbarda
There are now more than 10 official Grk wine producers in Lumbarda including Vitis, Popic, Sabulum, Cipre, Casa Boschi and Bire.
Our Wine Tasting Tours in Lumbarda visit the best family-run Grk producers and include all transportation and reservations at wineries. Our self-guided cycling tour to Lumbarda from Korcula Town includes information about wineries and the local area.
How to get to the Lumbarda wineries from Korcula Town
Lumbarda is about 5 km from Korcula Town. There are multiple ways to reach the village to enjoy a spot of wine tasting.
🚲 Biking: You can rent bikes via one of the rental tourist agencies and ride to Lumbarda. Keep in mind there are a few hills and stretches where you’ll share the road with cars.
🛥️ Water Taxi: Take the water taxi which departs every half an hour during the peak season. This is a scenic way to reach Lumbarda. The drop-off point is a short walk from several wineries, making this an pleasant and convenient option.
🚌 Local Bus: The local bus takes around 15 minutes and is a budget-friendly way to reach Lumbarda. You can either get off in the village centre or continue a bit further and disembark closer to the vineyards.
🚕 Taxi: For the most convenient option, take a local taxi directly to Lumbarda, costing around €15-€20 each way.
Most wineries in Lumbarda are close to one another. This allows you to easily walk (or bike) between them without needing additional transportation.
Wineries in Zrnovo
Award-winning Posip producers, Tasovac, have a beautiful winery in Zrnovo. Here you can taste all their delicious wines in a shaded courtyard.
How to get to Tasovac Winery from Korcula Town?
🚌 Local Bus: Ask the driver to drop you off in Kampus and then it is a short walk to Tasovac Winery.
🚕 Taxi: The easiest option to get to Tasovac is to take a local taxi directly there, costing around €15-€20 each way.
Wineries in Smokvica
There are several family-run producers in Smokvica, including Toreta, which also houses an interesting museum, and Winery Grosic.
Smokvica also features the “Posip Walk,” passing by a statue commemorating the discovery of the grape in the area.
Wineries in Cara
Notable winemakers from Cara include Krajancic, Nerica and PZ Posip Cara, which is one of the oldest Posip producers on the island.
Wineries in Blato
The largest wine producer in Blato is “Blato 1902,” which is also an olive oil producer. From their shop and tasting room, you can buy premium bottled wines, house wine (straight from the tank), and domestic olive oil.
There are also several family wine producers in Blato, including Bacic, Jovanov and Dine.
How to get to Smokvica, Cara and Blato wineries from Korcula Town
🚌 Local Bus: A main bus route runs from Korcula Town to Cara, Smokvica, and Blato. From the bus stop, several wineries are within walking distance, making this a convenient and affordable option.
🚗 Car Rental: If you have a designated driver, renting a car through a local agency in Korcula Town offers more flexibility than the bus.
🚕 Taxi: The most expensive option, but a taxi provides comfort and convenience, letting everyone in your group enjoy wine tasting without worry. Our friend and local driver, Nikola, offers a half-day wine tour visiting wineries in Lumbarda and Smokvica, with options to customise.
📋 Guided Tour: For a more organised experience with local insights, consider booking a winery tour with Gaby, who offers a smooth, guided journey to the wineries.
Discover the Wines of Korcula on a Guided Tour
Ready to taste the best of Korcula Wine? Explore the unique wines of Korcula Island by joining one of our wine-tasting tours. Immerse yourself in the rich history, visit family-run wineries, and indulge in the island’s finest wines. Book your tour today and experience the best of Korcula’s wine.
Korcula Wine Bars
Korcula has seen a boom in wine bars in recent years—and we’re definitely not complaining! Most of these spots are centred around Korcula Old Town. They offer an impressive selection of wines from the island and nearby Peljesac.
In Korcula Town, top recommendations include Bokar Wine Bar, Lole Wine Bar & Tapas, and Mariola. Each wine bar is run by passionate locals eager to introduce you to Korcula’s finest wines.
For a scenic wine experience in Racisce, check out MD Tasting House. This cute place is located on the waterfront and offers local wines paired with charcuterie. An idyllic spot for wine tasting!
In Vela Luka, visit Do Bar, where knowledgeable staff can guide you through wine pairings with delicious small plates.
Korcula Wine Shops
If you would like to buy wine either to drink straightaway or to take home as a souvenir, I would recommend buying directly from a winery. Alternatively, there are a couple of wine shops in Korcula Town, including Dioniz and Wine Corner.
You can buy wine from local supermarkets, although they do not typically stock locally produced island wines.
Wine Festivals
Throughout the summer, Korcula Island hosts several wine festivals, offering a fantastic opportunity to taste a variety of local wines.
In Lumbarda, Grk Wine Nights are held, where you can sample wines from all the local producers. These events typically take place on Sunday evenings, starting in late July.
Korcula Town, Smokvica, and Cara each host one or two wine evenings, usually in July. Local wine producers join together to showcase wine from across the island. These events highlight the rich diversity and quality of Korcula’s wine heritage.
Harvest Time on Korcula Island
The grape harvest on Korcula Island is typically from mid to late August into September. The exact time depends on when the grapes reach optimal ripeness. The ripeness is determined by measuring the levels of sugar, acid, and tannin in the grapes. Weather also plays a crucial role, as grapes need plenty of sun and minimal rain to thrive.
All grapes are handpicked, usually by the extended family of the winery, local friends, or even visitors to the island. This traditional method ensures that only the best grapes are selected, contributing to the exceptional quality of Korcula’s wines.
The Complete Korcula Travel Guide: Plan With Confidence
For €5 you’ll get:
- How to choose the best beaches, vineyards, and transport options for your trip
- Thoughtful activity ideas beyond the usual highlights
- Tried-and-tested restaurants, bars, and wine tastings we genuinely recommend
Created by locals who’ve been living and exploring Korcula since 2010.
Ultimate Guide to Korcula Wine and Wine Tasting: FAQ
What are the most popular wines in Korcula?
Grk, primarily grown in Lumbarda, and Posip, cultivated in Smokvica and Cara, are the most popular indigenous wines of Korcula. Plavac Mali, a robust red, is also popular.
Where can I go wine tasting on Korcula?
The main wine-tasting areas are Lumbarda, Smokvica, and Cara, where many local wineries offer tastings.
Are guided wine tours available on Korcula?
Yes, guided wine tours are available on Korcula, taking you to local wineries in Lumbarda, Smokvica, and Cara. Tours often include transportation, tastings, and insights from local guides, making it easy to enjoy Korcula’s unique wines.
Wrap-Up: Ultimate Guide to Korcula Wine and Wine Tasting
We hope this guide has provided helpful insights on where to go wine tasting on Korcula Island and highlighted some must-try local wines.
Whether you choose to explore the wineries on your own, join a guided wine tour, or relax with a few glasses at a wine bar, Korcula offers plenty of ways to savour its exceptional wines. Cheers to that!
READ NEXT >> Wine Tours on Korcula Island
Korcula Travel Planning Essentials
How do I get to Korcula Island?
Korcula is easily reached by catamarans and ferries from Split, Dubrovnik, and nearby islands, with frequent daily services in summer. Buses from Dubrovnik and Split connect to Korcula as well.
You can also drive to Korcula by taking a car ferry from Split to Vela Luka or from Orebic to Domince (just 3 km from Korcula Town).
➡️ More info about how to get to Korcula Island
➡️ Check the Putovnica website for all transport schedules
When is the best time to visit Korcula?
The ideal time to visit is between May and September when the weather is warm and the sea is perfect for swimming. July and August are the busiest months; for a more relaxed experience, consider May, June, or September.
➡️ More info on the best time to visit Korcula Island
Where should I stay on Korcula Island?
There are many accommodation options available on the island, including hotels and private apartments. Popular places to stay include Korcula, Zrnovska Banja, Lumbarda and Vela Luka. For peace, look into staying in smaller villages like Racisce or Zrnovo.
📍 See our guide to where to stay on Korcula (includes location and accommodation recommendations)
What are the top things to do on Korcula Island?
Wander the historic streets of Korcula Old Town, go wine tasting in Lumbarda, bike to Racisce, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Hike scenic trails, sample local food such as black risotto and zrnovski makaruni, relax on pristine beaches, and don’t miss the traditional Moreska sword dance.
➡️ Things to do on Korcula
📍 Places to visit on Korcula
Should I rent a car on Korcula Island?
A car isn’t essential, but can be useful if you want to explore remote beaches and villages. Public buses, taxis, and water taxis make getting around easy without one.
➡️ Read more travel and transportation advice
Are there ATMs, and can I use a credit card?
ATMs are available in Korcula Town, Vela Luka, and Lumbarda. Use bank-affiliated ATMs and opt to be charged in Euros to avoid high fees. While an increasing number of places accept cards, it’s smart to carry some cash and ask in advance if cash is accepted.
Can I drink the tap water in Korcula?
Yes, tap water is safe and clean, sourced from natural springs. Bottled water is also readily available. Note: at some restaurants they will push you to order bottled water.
Travel Insurance for your trip to Korcula
No one plans for things to go wrong on holiday, but travel insurance offers peace of mind if they do. Whether it’s trip delays, lost luggage, or unexpected medical needs, being covered can make a big difference. We recommend SafetyWing for affordable, flexible travel insurance that’s perfect for short stays or longer adventures.