Korula for Wine Lovers – Poip and Grk Wines Private Tour

If you’re visiting Korcula Island and have a penchant for good wine, this private tour promises an authentic tasting experience focused on the island’s indigenous grapes, Poip and Grk. With a small group (or just your own party), you’ll visit top local wineries, enjoy scenic drives, and get a behind-the-scenes look at Korcula’s wine culture.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to compare two distinct Korcula grapes—each with its own personality. Second, the opportunity to visit award-winning wineries with knowledgeable hosts. Third, the gorgeous views—including a hilltop viewpoint over Korcula’s ancient rooftops—adding to the overall sensory feast. The only potential caveat? The price might seem high for some, but considering the quality of wines and exclusivity, many will find it well worth it. This tour is perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers wanting a taste of local life, and those who enjoy scenic drives with a bit of history.

Good To Know

• Authentic Korcula wine experience focused on indigenous grapes Poip and Grk.
• Visits to renowned wineries like Bire and Tasovac, both award-winning family-run businesses.
• Scenic drives through Lumbarda vineyards and island roads, culminating in stunning views of Korcula town.
• Insightful guides with deep knowledge, making the experience engaging and personalized.
• Tastings with snacks at each winery, providing context and flavor pairing.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind with full refunds if you change your mind 24 hours ahead.

Exploring Korcula for Wine Aficionados

Korcula has long been celebrated for its white wines, particularly those crafted from local grapes Poip (or Poship) and Grk. These varieties are special to the island, with their own unique profiles—often compared to Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, respectively. You don’t need to be a wine expert to enjoy this tour, but knowing that each sip is tied to tradition and local terroir enhances the experience.

This private tour is a well-balanced blend of wine tasting and sightseeing. It’s private in nature, so your group can enjoy a personalized experience, led by a knowledgeable guide—Saa, the host, who comes highly recommended in reviews. The price, at around $268 per person, can seem steep but includes visits to two highly acclaimed wineries, expert-guided tastings, snacks, and transport—all in a comfortable, flexible timeframe.

The tour’s value is apparent when considering the exclusivity and depth of the experience. You’re not just sampling wines; you’re learning about their origins, the winemaking process, and the local grape varieties that thrive here. Plus, the scenic drives through vineyards and island roads add a layer of visual delight that complements the tasting.

What’s Included in the Itinerary?

Stop 1: Bire Winery in Lumbarda

Your journey begins in Lumbarda, a village famous for Grk wines. Bire Winery is a family-run operation known for its award-winning Grk Defora, which snagged a Platinum Award from Decanter WWA in 2021. Here, you’ll sample the iconic wine while enjoying a terrace surrounded by aromatic herbs—a perfect setting for your first tasting.

What’s special? The fact that Bire Winery consistently earns awards underscores the quality of their wines. Angela_K, one reviewer, appreciated the “unique and memorable experience with great wines and delicious snacks,” highlighting the personal touch and high standards.

Stop 2: Tasovac Winery

Next, you’ll visit Tasovac Vinery, situated in a beautifully restored family house. Their wines are also consistently recognized with awards, and you’ll get to taste several varieties, paired with snacks. The outdoor and indoor seating options mean you can relax in a cozy or open-air setting, depending on your mood.

What to expect? The hosts’ expertise helps demystify the wine-making process, making each sip more meaningful. Reviewers mention their engaging guides and excellent wines, especially noting the “best wines Croatia has to offer,” with some guests even buying bottles to bring home.

Scenic Drives and Interior Village Visits

After the winery visits, the tour continues with a scenic drive through Lumbarda vineyards and island roads to Rnovo, an interior village. This 20-25 minute drive offers sweeping views of the countryside and vineyards—think endless rows of grapevines against a backdrop of lush hills.

Rnovo Wine Tasting

In Rnovo, you’ll spend an hour tasting more local wines, this time in a rustic, intimate setting. This segment allows you to compare the different expressions of Poip, the other indigenous grape, with many finding it comparable to Chardonnay. The relaxed atmosphere here helps you savor the flavors and appreciate the wine’s character.

Return to Korcula & Viewpoint

On your way back, a stop at a viewpoint above Korcula town provides a perfect photo opportunity—almost within touching distance of the colorful rooftops that have stood for over a thousand years. The view is truly striking and offers a fitting end to your flavorful day.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive experience. Pickup is offered, which adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the town center. The group is small, providing a more intimate setting—ideal for engaging conversations and personalized attention.

Transportation is via comfortable vehicle, with scenic drives that give you a glimpse of Korcula’s lush interior. Timing-wise, the tour starts in Korcula town and ends back at the same meeting point, with the itinerary carefully balanced to allow ample tasting without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Local Charm

One of the biggest draws here is the chance to connect with local winemakers who are passionate about their craft. Both Bire and Tasovac are family businesses that prioritize quality and tradition, giving you an authentic taste of Korcula’s wine culture. The hosts are praised for their engaging, knowledgeable guidance, which elevates the experience beyond just sipping wine.

Angela_K appreciated Saa’s personal approach, describing the tasting as “excellent,” while Cody_B praised the “best wines Croatia has to offer,” especially highlighting the Grk wine they bought to enjoy at home. Such reviews reinforce the tour’s credibility and appeal.

Final Thoughts

This private Korcula wine tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience for anyone interested in local wines and scenic island life. The focus on indigenous grapes Poip and Grk, combined with visits to award-winning wineries, makes it a special way to deepen your understanding of Korcula’s wine heritage.

While it’s a bit of an investment, the combination of expert-guided tastings, scenic drives, and the chance to buy bottles directly from producers makes it a valuable experience, especially for wine enthusiasts. It’s perfect for those who love a personal touch, authentic local stories, and beautiful views.

If you’re after a leisurely, educational, and delicious journey into Korcula’s wine world, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since alcoholic beverages are not served to those under 18, the tour is mainly geared toward wine lovers. However, the scenic drives and views can still be enjoyed by non-drinkers, though the main focus is on tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for the rest of your day.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers visits to two award-winning wineries, guided tastings with snacks, and transportation between locations. Pickup service is also offered.

Are the wineries family-run?
Yes, both Bire and Tasovac are family businesses known for their quality wines and warm hospitality.

Can I buy wine to take home?
Absolutely. Many guests, including those praised in reviews, purchase bottles during the tastings, especially the popular Grk wines.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s a private experience, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere tailored to your group.

This Korcula wine tour blends the charm of island scenery with the flavors of local tradition—perfect for anyone wanting to taste the authentic side of Croatian winemaking while enjoying stunning vistas.