Peljeac wine tasting and local winery visit

Introducing the Peljeac Wine Tasting and Winery Visit Experience

If you’re looking to see what makes Croatia’s Peljeac region a true wine lover’s paradise, this tour offers an intimate peek into local winemaking traditions. While we haven’t personally done this experience, it’s clear from reviews and descriptions that it’s a standout for authentic charm and genuine hospitality. You’ll meet a family that’s been making wine for generations, taste some of the best regional varieties, and sample traditional Croatian food—all in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its authenticity and the opportunity to learn directly from the people who produce the wines. The fact that it’s a small, family-run operation means you’re not just another tourist, but a guest in their home and a part of their story. A possible consideration for travelers is that the tour lasts about an hour and a half, which might feel short if you’re eager for a deep dive. Still, for those craving a genuine, personal experience paired with good value, this tour hits the mark. Ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone eager to taste the flavors that earned Peljeac the nickname “The Empire of Wine.”

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Owned Winery: Experience genuine Croatian hospitality and traditional winemaking.
• Tasting & Food Pairings: Sample four local wines or fruit liquors paired with regional foods like cheese, cured meats, and homemade bread.
• Learn the Process: Discover how wines are made in Peljeac and what sets this region apart from others.
• Beautiful Setting: Enjoy the charm of a small village with scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Affordable & Value-Focused: Usually priced at $35, this tour offers a lot of insight, tastings, and a welcoming environment.
• Highly Rated: With a 4.9 out of 5 from 13 reviews, this experience is praised for its friendliness, knowledge, and quality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Wine Tours In Ston? Our Top 8 Picks.

Exploring the Authenticity of Peljeac’s Wineries

Many travelers are drawn to Croatia for its coastal beauty, but the Peljeac region reveals a different, more intimate side: a landscape dotted with family-operated wineries steeped in tradition. The tour is hosted by the Vinarija Kurla, a small family business, which is part of what makes the experience so special.

When we say authentic, we mean that you won’t find overly commercialized tasting rooms here. Instead, you’ll meet hosts like Mea and her father, who welcome you into their home, showing you around their working winery. You’ll see the production area up close, often in the same space where they craft their wines, and learn about age-old methods passed down through generations. This connection to the land and tradition is what truly sets this experience apart.

From the start, the hosts aim to make you feel comfortable, sharing stories about their family and the history of winemaking in Peljeac. An example from reviews mentions that Mea was “incredibly welcoming and informative,” which highlights the personal touch you’ll find here. This is not a scripted or overly polished experience—just genuine passion, good wine, and warm hospitality.

The Experience Itself: From Arrival to Tasting

The tour begins with a simple, friendly greeting at the village of Broce, about 1.5 km from Ston. The winery itself is the first house on the right side of the road once you leave town. It’s a setting that feels inviting and personal—perfect for those seeking an authentic experience.

Once inside, you’ll be given a quick tour of the production area. Here, you’ll see where the wine magic happens—whether it’s traditional fermentation tanks or barrels—and learn about the regional techniques that make Peljeac wines stand out. The hosts are eager to explain what makes their wines unique, from grape varieties to aging methods, giving you a deeper appreciation for what’s in your glass.

Following the tour, the real highlight awaits: a guided tasting of four different wines or liqueurs. These are usually a mix of whites, reds, and sometimes rosé or fruit liqueurs, offering a well-rounded taste of the region’s offerings. The tastings are served in a cozy, charming room that’s decorated with local touches, making you feel like you’re visiting family.

Each wine is paired with local finger foods—cheese, cured meats, olives, and homemade bread—that complement the flavors and showcase regional produce. Many reviewers emphasize how well the pairings elevate the tasting, with some noting that the cheese platter and olive oils were especially tasty. One visitor mentioned that the pairing with homemade bread and regional meats made the experience “excellent,” and another highlighted how the wines rival French varieties in quality.

The Region’s Reputation: Why Peljeac is Known as the “Empire of Wine”

Peljeac’s reputation as Croatia’s “Empire of Wine” is well-deserved. The region’s climate, soil, and traditional practices produce wines that are increasingly gaining recognition. From the reviews, it’s clear that some of the wines can rival those from renowned wine-producing countries, with one traveler describing some reds “that rivaled good French wines.”

Learning about why Peljeac’s wines are so revered can deepen your appreciation. The hosts often share stories about winemaking history, local grape varieties like Plavac Mali, and organic olive oil production—adding layers of context and flavor to your tasting.

This tour isn’t just about drinking—it’s about understanding the pride, effort, and tradition behind each bottle. It’s a chance to see how regional identity is woven into the wines, making each sip taste even more meaningful.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

For $35 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the quality of the experience. It’s a short activity, typically around an hour and a half, making it perfect for combining with other explorations around Ston or nearby attractions like the Salt Mines or Walls of Ston.

The meeting point is straightforward—once you leave Ston and head towards Broce, the winery is the first house on the right. Using Google Maps with “Winery Kurla” makes navigation simple. The tour is conducted in English, with hosts willing to answer questions and share their knowledge.

Booking is flexible—reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is helpful if your plans change. Payment is also flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, providing peace of mind.

Group size is generally small, ensuring a personal experience. This intimacy allows for meaningful conversations and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer genuine interactions over large, generic tours.

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Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience is ideal for travelers who value authenticity and personal connection over commercialized tours. If you’re a wine lover eager to learn about Croatian wines directly from the producers, this tour offers both education and enjoyment. Its focus on family-run wineries means you’ll get a taste of local life—both figuratively and literally.

It’s also a wonderful choice if you’re interested in regional food and organic products like olive oil and homemade bread. Many reviews highlight how well the pairings complement the wines, creating a tasting experience that’s both flavorful and educational.

While the tour is brief, the reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable hosts, the excellent selection of wines, and the stunning views of the surrounding village and countryside. It’s a genuine chance to taste and understand the region’s vinicultural heritage.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

In essence, this winery visit offers a slice of Croatian life—warm, authentic, and flavorful. It’s best suited for wine enthusiasts seeking a personal, educational tasting, travelers eager to explore regional traditions, or anyone wanting to support small, family-run businesses. The blend of good value, honest hospitality, and regional charm makes it a memorable addition to any trip to Peljeac or Ston.

If you appreciate knowing the story behind your wine and enjoy tasting regional specialties in a relaxed setting, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s not a large, impersonal operation, but an intimate cultural experience that will leave you with a better understanding—and probably a few bottles to take home.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically takes around an hour and a half, including the tour of the winery and the tasting session.

Where do I meet the winery?
The winery is located in the village of Broce, about 1.5 km from Ston. It’s the first house on the right after leaving town, easily found by inputting “Winery Kurla” into Google Maps.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a visit to a family-owned winery, tasting four local wines or fruit liquors, tasting traditional foods like cheese, cured meats, olives, and homemade bread, plus the host’s guidance.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes, the winery has a store where you can purchase bottles. You’re welcome to take some home after tasting.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
The tour is conducted in English, and hosts seem eager to answer questions, making it accessible for most travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Is this experience good value?
Absolutely. For $35, you get a meaningful introduction to regional wines, traditional foods, and a chance to meet local producers—an authentic experience worth the price.

Who is this tour ideal for?
It’s best suited for wine lovers, curious travelers, and anyone interested in Croatian culture and local family businesses.

Do I need prior wine knowledge?
No, the hosts are friendly and eager to explain, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned wine enthusiasts alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: