Twice the Wine – Two wineries half day tour, with delicacies

Hvar, Croatia, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and, of course, its exceptional wines. The Twice the Wine tour promises an intimate experience visiting two local wineries, with expert guides leading you through Croatia’s wine-making traditions, complemented by regional delicacies. With a small group capped at eight participants, this half-day adventure offers a relaxed-paced, authentic glimpse into the island’s vinicultural scene.

What really stands out for us is the personalized approach—visiting boutique estates that most travelers wouldn’t find on their own—and the chance to sample a diverse array of regional wines paired with tasty snacks. That said, the 4-hour duration means you’ll cover quite a bit in a short time, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet enriching experience without spending a whole day on it. If you love discovering local flavors and enjoy scenic drives, this tour could be a perfect fit.

One consideration is the tour’s morning start time at 4:00 pm, which might be a bit late for some early risers or those with tight schedules. Still, the late afternoon timing allows for softer sunlight and glorious views, making the experience even more memorable. Overall, it’s a fantastic option for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone looking to add a cultural touch to their Hvar trip.

Key Points

• Authentic wineries: Visit boutique estates often hidden from typical tourist routes.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Leo and Franjo enhance the experience with local insights.
• Regional pairings: Enjoy Croatian snacks and delicacies that complement the wines.
• Scenic settings: From cozy cellars to hilltop verandas with sea views.
• Small group intimacy: Max group size of 7-8 people ensures personalized attention.
• Value for money: Quality tastings and local food included, making the price quite reasonable.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Trg Sv. Stjepana in Hvar

The tour kicks off at the central square of Hvar town, setting a relaxed tone. Meeting here at 4:00 pm means you’re arriving at a time when the island’s afternoon light is particularly gentle—perfect for soaking in the scenery before heading out.

Stop 1: Dubokovic Wine in Jelsa

Your first stop is Ivo Dubokovic’s boutique vineyard. Known as Croatia’s leading boutique winemaker, Ivo’s cozy cellar offers a more personal, intimate tasting experience. Reviewers often highlight his reputation, but what stands out is the authentic, unpretentious atmosphere. You’ll learn about the wines directly from Ivo or his team, making it a genuine taste of local craftsmanship.

Guests mention that the cellar feels boutique and cozy, with a vibe that’s a far cry from large commercial wineries. This offers a more genuine connection to the winemaker’s passion and process. Expect to learn about the local grape varieties and the unique nuances that make Hvar wines special.

Stop 2: Lacman Family Winery on a Hilltop

Next, you’re taken to Lacman Family Winery, perched in a peaceful hilltop village. Here, the experience switches gears: from cellar tasting to sitting on a veranda with panoramic sea views. This setting, described as “stunning” by travelers, makes the tasting feel like a special occasion.

The focus here is on diversity—visitors enjoy sampling five different wine courses, with a tasty selection of local, homemade delicacies like cold cuts and regional finger foods. Tasting on the terrace, with the sea stretching out in the background, truly elevates the experience. Reviewers have called this part of the tour “gorgeous,” noting that the ambiance and the wines themselves are both excellent.

Tasting and Food Pairings

Both stops include generous tastings—either four or eight courses—allowing you to savor a variety of local wines. Paired with regional snacks, the tasting sessions are described as plentiful and well-balanced. Several reviewers mentioned the snacks, often described as traditional Hvar-style finger foods, which perfectly complement the wines and give a real taste of local produce.

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the tour, you’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort even in the Croatian heat. The small group size means you won’t be lost in the crowd, and guides like Leo and Franjo add a warm, knowledgeable touch, sharing stories about Hvar’s wine, history, and landscapes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personal Touch & Authenticity

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise and friendliness, with Leo and Franjo being singled out for their engaging storytelling. You’ll not only learn about wine but also about the island’s culture, history, and landscape, often from a local’s perspective.

Unique Wine Selections & Setting

The two wineries offer very different atmospheres—one boutique cellar and one hilltop estate—giving you a broad taste of Hvar’s vinicultural diversity. The second winery’s scenic terrace, overlooking the sea, is a particular highlight.

Delicious Local Food

Snacks are not just an afterthought; reviewers mention the tasty, traditional Croatian finger foods and regional delicacies. These pairings boost the experience, making it more than just wine tasting.

Value for Money

For $161.86 per person, including tastings, snacks, private transportation, and expert guidance, the experience offers good value, especially given the intimate group size and personalized approach.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration & Timing

The 4-hour tour begins at 4:00 pm, which is suitable for those who want to combine it with daytime activities or simply prefer a leisurely late afternoon experience. The timing also means you get the benefit of softer lighting for photos and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Limited to a maximum of 7-8 travelers, the tour ensures plenty of opportunities to ask questions, interact with guides, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or crowded.

Cost & Inclusion

Priced at around $162, the tour covers all tastings, regional snacks, bottled water, and transportation. The inclusion of a COVID disinfection kit shows a focus on safety, which is always reassuring.

Accessibility & Suitability

Most travelers can participate, but those who love wine, local culture, or scenic views will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also a good choice for those interested in learning about Croatian wine production from vine to glass.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

One guest raved about the “beautiful views, great wine, and delicacies,” praising the guide as “fantastic” and recommending it for a wonderful day. Others appreciated the variety of wines and informative guides like Leo and Franjo, who shared insights into Hvar’s history and the wine-making process.

Several reviewers highlighted the gorgeous setting of the hilltop winery and the cozy, boutique atmosphere of Ivo Dubokovic’s cellar. Guests felt the experience was well worth the price, especially given the generous tastings and regional snacks.

A recurring theme is the personalized, friendly guidance that made the journey feel more like visiting friends rather than a commercialized tour. Visitors especially enjoyed learning about the local grape varieties and tasting orange wine and other unique varietals.

The Sum Up: Is the Twice the Wine Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic wine experiences, loves scenic drives, and wants to explore Hvar beyond its main tourist spots, this tour offers a fantastic blend of education, taste, and beauty. Its small-group format means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, making it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy engaging discussions and regional flavors.

The tour is particularly suited for wine lovers eager to try a variety of local varietals, as well as those interested in discovering the island’s hidden wine spots. The inclusion of regional delicacies and gorgeous vistas enhances the overall value, making it more than just a tasting session—it’s a well-rounded cultural outing.

While the late afternoon timing might not suit everyone, those who enjoy sunset views and a relaxed pace will find this tour a memorable highlight of their Hvar trip. Overall, it offers a genuine taste of Hvar’s wine culture, with the added bonus of stunning scenery and expert guides leading the way.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 4:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point in Hvar town.

What are the main stops?
You’ll visit Ivo Dubokovic’s boutique cellar in Jelsa and Lacman Family Winery in a hilltop village, each offering different atmospheres and wine styles.

How many wineries are visited?
Two wineries, each with a unique character—one boutique cellar and one scenic hilltop estate.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all wine tastings (4 or 8 courses), regional snacks, bottled water, private air-conditioned transportation, and safety kits.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially wine enthusiasts or those interested in local culture. Those with mobility issues should check with the provider beforehand.

Can I buy wine at the wineries?
Yes, the reviews mention purchasing wine, especially at the first boutique cellar, which offers a variety of local options.

What is the meeting point?
The meeting point is Trg Sv. Stjepana in Hvar town.

When does the tour start?
It begins at 4:00 pm, ideal for enjoying late-afternoon views and cooler temperatures.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 7-8 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable casual attire is recommended, especially since some time is spent sitting outdoors and touring cellars.

In summary, the Twice the Wine tour combines personalized service, scenic beauty, and authentic Croatian wine culture. It offers fantastic value for those eager to explore Hvar’s hidden vinicultural gems without the crowds, making it a top choice for a laid-back yet enriching afternoon.