Twice the wine

In the 4th century BC, the Ancient Greeks introduced grapevines to this sunny island, planting them in the fertile plains near the ancient village of Pharos, which is now known as Stari Grad. Through centuries of rich and turbulent history, the people of Hvar, blessed by the lush Mediterranean climate, have cultivated their vineyards with remarkable care and expertise. Grapes and wine were more than a livelihood – they provided food, medicine, and security for the island's inhabitants.

Today, Hvar is home to some of the finest grape varieties in the region. The challenge of transforming this natural richness into exceptional wine has been met with time-honored techniques. Hvar’s wines now compete on the global stage, earning prestigious awards and recognition as some of Croatia’s finest.

Enjoy this full-bodied Experience surrounded by the island’s breathtaking scenery, heritage tasting rooms, and excellent Hvar wines. Your wine tour begins with collection from your villa, a relaxing and informative ride through the stunning landscapes of Hvar, leading to the central part of the island, home to one of the most important wine regions here.

First stop: the winery of Andro Tomić. The wine cellar here is breathtaking: carved into the stone just like the ancient cellars of Diocletian, the blend of travertine columns and vaulted ceilings not only provides an impressive setting for aging wines but also creates an atmosphere that is both timeless and inviting.

Andro Tomić, born on the island of Hvar, has devoted his life to the art of winemaking. After two decades of training in France and beyond, he returned to Hvar to craft his own wines. Convinced that Hvar’s unique varieties, climate, and exceptional vineyard locations could restore its historic reputation in the wine world, Andro continues a 150-year family tradition with his son, Sebastijan. His acclaimed wines, including the renowned "1991" showcase the remarkable potential of the indigenous Plavac Mali and have sparked a renaissance in regional winemaking and viticulture.

During your tasting, you'll have the pleasure of sampling their autochthonous varieties as well as their experimental blends. Each wine, from the robust reds to the crisp whites and delicate rosés, showcases the meticulous care and innovation that Tomić Winery is known for. Special attention is given to Prošek, the traditional Dalmatian dessert wine, which is particularly noteworthy for its depth and richness.

The winery’s commitment to quality is evident through its rigorous self-control system, which includes a comprehensive HACCP plan and an operational laboratory for precise wine analysis. This dedication to maintaining high standards ensures that each bottle meets the highest quality benchmarks.

Your second stop brings you to the wine cellar of Ivo Duboković – a man who is not afraid to experiment with wines and olive oil – and that’s what makes him so special.

Ivo Duboković stands out as one of Croatia's most innovative winemakers, known for pioneering white macerated (orange) wines on Hvar. While he's acclaimed for his red wines, notably Medvid and Medvjedica, his journey to winemaking wasn't straightforward. Born above the very cellar he now manages, Ivo initially pursued a career in economics and marketing in Zagreb. It was his father's prime vineyard locations and an underused wine cellar that inspired Ivo to enter the family business. Driven by a quest for excellence, he developed Medvid, now celebrated as a cult red wine from the Croatian Plavac Mali grape.

In a cosy corner of his konoba, a table awaits you, adorned with a tablecloth, candelabra, and an array of bread and cheese. The wines have been decanted for a couple of hours and are complemented by a carefully curated selection of music. As you start sampling, you’ll find yourself all ears as one of Croatia’s most innovative winemakers shares the story behind his craft.

Duboković draws inspiration from his family’s centuries-old winemaking tradition. He reflects on the methods of his father and grandfather, who produced white wines that remained delightful even after 14 years. Unlike artists who may see results in months, winemakers must wait years to assess their creations. Thus, Ivo’s cellar is filled with various trials – different vintages, grape varieties, and barrel types.

Duboković’s wines, which emphasise natural processes and organic products, can be found at desks of top restaurants in Croatia, Switzerland, Germany, and recently even in France. These artisanal wines, produced in limited quantities, are exclusive and highly sought after.

In addition to wine, you will also taste a wide variety of aromatised olive oils which he produces – with standout flavours including rosemary, basil, and chilli.

The tour concludes with a transfer back to your villa, following the two delightful degustation experiences.

Do you think you will have worked up an appetite from all the sampling and tasting? We think so too. Extend your Experience with a visit to a family-owned local restaurant (konoba) after you’re finished at the wine cellar.

Savor a delicious, authentic three-course Dalmatian dinner that perfectly caps off your adventure:

Some of our more remotely-located villas may have a surcharge for collection and return.

For bookings of this Experience made more than 60 days in advance of your arrival date at your villa, the following conditions apply:

For bookings of this Experience made 60 days or less in advance of your arrival date at your villa, the following conditions apply:

Please read our full Experience booking terms before booking.