Pelješac, the second largest peninsula in Croatia, is known for its spectacular landscapes, historical sites and – top-notch wines. It is home to Plavac Mali, a variety that produces some of the most prized Croatian wines such as Dingač and Postup. The Pelješac Wine Trail is not just a tourist attraction – it is an experience, a combination of tradition, passion and natural beauty.
What is the Pelješac Wine Trail?
The Pelješac Wine Trail encompasses a network of wineries, vineyards and tasting points stretching from Ston to Trpanj, including places such as Potomje, Drače, Janjina, Kuna and Orebić. Visitors can taste wines from different micro-regions, meet winemakers, tour cellars dug into the rocks and enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards descending towards the sea.
The most famous Pelješac wineries
The Pelješac Wine Trail includes numerous renowned wineries:
- Matuško Winery (Potomje) – known for Dingač, Postup and elegant red wines.
- Miloš Winery (Ston) – family tradition, organic approach and wines with character.
- Križ Winery (Trstenik) – boutique winery with a focus on terroir.
- Marlais Winery (Ponikve) – a modern interpretation of traditional wines.
- Dingač Agricultural Cooperative – guardian of the oldest Croatian designation of origin.
Three wines that define the Pelješac Wine Trail – Dingač, Postup and Rukatac
1. Dingač – King of Pelješac wines
Variety: Plavac mali
Area: Dingač vineyards, southern slopes of Pelješac
Characteristics:
- Deep ruby red color
- Intense aroma of ripe blackberries, plums and spices
- Strong, complex, with a long finish
Food pairing: Pasticada, red meat, mature cheese
Wineries: Matuško, Bura-Mokalo, Dingač Agricultural Cooperative
2. Postup – Elegance with a sea view
Variety: Plavac mali
Area: Postup Vineyards, near Orebić
Characteristics:
- Dark red color with purple reflections
- Aroma of dried fruit, vanilla and Mediterranean herbs
- Elegant, balanced, with mild tannins
Food recommendation: Fish brodette, lamb, blue cheese
Wineries: Bartulović Winery, Marlais Winery, Bezek Winery
3. Rukatac – A fresh white classic from Pelješac
Variety: Rukatac (autochthonous white variety)
Area: Central Pelješac – Janjina, Kuna
Characteristics:
- Light yellow color
- Aroma of citrus, apple and flowers
- Light, fresh, ideal for summer days
Food recommendation: Oysters, salads, light fish dishes
Wineries: Miloš Winery, Grgić Winery, Križ Winery
Experience outside the glass
The Pelješac Wine Trail is not just about wine – it’s about the experience. Many wineries offer:
- Tastings with a view – terrace overlooking the Adriatic.
- Cellar tours – a walk through stone cellars with archival bottles.
- Wine workshops – learning about the wine production process.
- Wine and food pairing – local cheese, prosciutto, mussels from Mali Ston Bay.
Recommended Pelješac Wine Tour
Ideal route for a day trip:
- Ston – start with the historic walls and shells.
- Ponikve – visit the Marlais winery.
- Potomje – the heart of Dingač, taste Matuško wines.
- Trstenik – lunch by the sea and Križ wine.
- Orebić – end the day with a sunset and a glass of Postup.
Events and manifestations
The Pelješac Wine Trail is alive all year round:
- Open Cellar Days (May) – an opportunity to meet winemakers.
- Plavac Mali Festival (August) – music, wine and local food.
- Oyster Days (March) – a combination of shellfish and wine in the Mali Ston Bay.
Where to stay along the wine trail?
For the full Pelješac experience, we recommend accommodation near the sea , such as VM Apartments Orebić , located just 50 meters from the beach. Guests can enjoy wine tours, tastings and wine dinners, all in the comfort of modern apartments and a homely atmosphere.
Seasonal guide – When to visit the Pelješac Wine Trail
The Pelješac Wine Trail offers different experiences depending on the season:
- Spring (March – May): Ideal time for peaceful tastings, touring vineyards in bloom, and participating in the Oyster Days in Ston.
- Summer (June – August): Wine tours by the sea, evening tastings on terraces, a combination of wine and seafood.
- Autumn (September – October): Grape harvest, the smells of fermentation, the most authentic moment for wine lovers.
- Winter (November – February): Intimate tastings by the fireplace, archive wines, ideal for wine connoisseurs.
Tips for guests
- Book in advance – especially in season.
- Ask about archive wines – some wines are not on the regular menu.
- Wear comfortable shoes – vineyards are often on steep terrain.
- Connect with local guides – for an authentic experience.
The Pelješac Wine Trail is more than just a wine route – it is a journey through emotions, tradition and landscape. It is ideal for VM Apartments guests who want a combination of sea, wine and an authentic experience. Add this story to your blog and let your guests experience Pelješac with all their senses.
