Korula for Wine Lovers – Poip and Grk Wines Private Tour

If you’re a wine enthusiast heading to Korcula Island in Croatia, this private tour promises a taste of local tradition and authentic island flavors. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a quick tasting; it’s about diving into the stories behind Korcula’s unique grapes and enjoying beautiful scenery along the way.

What we love about this experience is the chance to sample award-winning wines like Bire’s Grk Defora and the warm, personal touch of a knowledgeable guide. Plus, the scenic drives through vineyards and island villages make it a well-rounded glimpse into Korcula’s wine culture.

One thing to consider: at around three hours, it’s a relatively short tour, so if you’re craving a full-day wine adventure, you might want to supplement it with other activities. But for those seeking a focused, intimate experience, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, are interested in learning about indigenous Croatian grapes, and enjoy scenic drives paired with quality wines.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Focused on Korcula’s indigenous grapes, Poip and Grk.
• Knowledgeable guide: Saa’s expertise enhances the tasting and storytelling.
• Beautiful scenery: Scenic drives through vineyards, island villages, and a viewpoint overlooking Korcula.
• Award-winning wines: Tasting top wines from Bire and Tasovac wineries.
• Private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.
• Cost and value: Priced at around $277 per person, offering a curated, intimate tour that combines culture, scenery, and wine.

Korcula Island is renowned for its crisp, white wines crafted from native grapes—Poip (also called Poship) and Grk. These grapes, unique to the island, produce wines that often resemble Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, offering a fresh, lively experience. If you’re curious about local varieties and want to see how they translate from vine to glass, this tour is a fantastic choice.

The tour offers a perfect blend of wine tasting, scenic driving, and cultural insight. It’s designed for those eager to understand Korcula’s wine traditions without the fuss of large group tours. Instead, it’s a private experience that concentrates on quality and authenticity.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Bire Winery in Lumbarda

Your journey begins in the village of Lumbarda, famous for being the heart of Grk wine production. Bire Winery is a standout, consistently earning awards for their Grk wines, notably their 2021 Grk Defora, which won a Platinum Award from Decanter WWA. The family-run winery’s tasting room offers an intimate setting to sample their celebrated wines.

We loved the way the guide explains the significance of Grk—an indigenous grape with a history stretching back centuries—while tasting their award-winning offerings. The wines are described as crisp and refreshing, with lively acidity that makes them perfect for warm days or seafood pairings. With the admission ticket included, you have plenty of time to savor and ask questions.

Stop 2: Tasovac Winery in Rastoš

Next, the tour takes you to Tasovac Vinery, situated in a beautifully restored family house. The setting is charming, with both outdoor and indoor seating—ideal for enjoying a leisurely tasting. Here, the wines consistently earn awards, adding confidence to your tasting experience. Plus, a snack is included, giving you a chance to nibble on local delicacies while sampling.

The reviews highlight the engaging and knowledgeable guide Saa, who makes each visit memorable. This stop offers insight into the craftsmanship behind these wines, emphasizing their high quality and the care taken in their production.

Scenic Drive and a Viewpoint

Between wineries, you’ll drive through the island’s scenic landscapes—vineyards stretching across rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush countryside. As you head toward Rnovo, a tiny village in the interior, the views become more picturesque with every turn.

On the return to Korcula Town, a stop at a viewpoint offers sweeping vistas over the city’s red rooftops and ancient walls. It’s an ideal photo opportunity and a fitting way to wrap up your exploration of Korcula’s wine country.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour is approximately three hours long, making it a manageable and engaging activity. It begins in Korcula Town, with transportation arranged for the short drives between stops. The group size is small—just your private party—so you’ll get personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions.

Wineries like Bire and Tasovac are family-run, so expect warm welcomes and stories about their history and winemaking process. Tastings are included, and you’ll sample some of the best wines Croatia has to offer—many of which you might want to buy to enjoy back home, as the reviews confirm.

The Food and Drink

Snacks are served at Tasovac, complementing the wines. Although the tour doesn’t specify a full meal, the included snacks are a nice touch, helping you appreciate the wines’ flavors without being overwhelmed.

The Views and Scenery

The scenic drives are a highlight, offering a chance to see the island from different angles. The drive through vineyards is particularly lush, and the final viewpoint over Korcula’s ancient town provides a perspective few visitors get without hiking or boat trips.

Authenticity and Value

At $276.86 per person, the tour might seem a touch steep for some, but the quality of the experience—private tasting sessions, expert guidance, and a personal connection with local winemakers—adds significant value. Many reviews highlight Saa’s knowledge and personable style, which elevates the entire experience.

The ability to compare the indigenous Poip and Grk grapes firsthand is a rare opportunity, and the award-winning wines give plenty of confidence in the quality. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Korcula wine tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want an authentic slice of the island’s wine culture, especially those interested in indigenous grapes. It’s perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone looking for a scenic, intimate experience that combines good wine, beautiful views, and friendly local hosts.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, award-winning wines, and a personal touch, you’ll find this tour rewarding. Those seeking a quick, superficial overview might find it too short, but for those craving depth and authenticity, it’s a standout.

This private wine tour on Korcula offers a focused, high-quality experience for those eager to discover the island’s native grapes and local wine-making traditions. The combination of award-winning wines, scenic drives, and warm hospitality makes it a memorable addition to your trip.

The tour’s private nature means you’ll get personalized attention and a relaxed environment to learn and taste at your own pace. It’s a wonderful choice for couples, small groups, or anyone who values authentic, handcrafted local products.

While the price may seem a bit high, the quality of wine, scenery, and expert guidance provide genuine value for those wanting a curated, intimate experience. If you love discovering hidden local gems and enjoy scenic drives with a glass in hand, this tour will meet and exceed your expectations.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but anyone under 18 will not be served alcohol.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided for the drives between Korcula, Lumbarda, and Rnovo.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable activity for most travelers.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, admission tickets for the wineries include tastings, as well as snacks at Tasovac.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for a short drive and outdoor tasting are recommended.

Are the wines available for purchase?
Many guests buy bottles to take home, especially the highly praised Grk wines.

Will I learn about the wine-making process?
Absolutely, the guide shares insights into the history and craft behind Korcula’s indigenous grapes.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While tastings are part of the experience, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenery and learn about local wine traditions.

This private Korcula wine tour combines the pleasure of sampling award-winning wines with the beauty of island scenery and the charm of local winemakers. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond the surface and truly connect with the flavors and stories of Korcula’s wine heritage.