If you are a Game of Thrones or Star Trek fan, you may recognise the old city of Dubrovnik in Croatia. Croatia emerged from former Yugoslavia in the early '90s and has become a popular tourist destination over the years. It offers a mix of historic charm, stunning coastlines, natural beauty, and architectural wonders. Recently, a Croatian vineyard was named the most beautiful in Europe. The accolade was based on a study that analysed over 20,000 Google reviews to identify the most picturesque destinations. The study included more than 500 vineyards across Europe, and the top spot, with a score of 97.9 out of 100, was awarded to Vinarija Rizman in southern Croatia. This family-owned vineyard, spanning 23 hectares, surpassed renowned wine regions in Italy and France.
Vinarija Rizman is an idyllic retreat for wine aficionados and nature lovers. Owned by the esteemed Štimac family, the vineyard's rich history traces back to the great-grandfather who planted the inaugural vines, marking the beginning of a cherished winegrowing legacy. The Štimac family's tradition of winegrowing dates to the early 20th century when the first vineyards were meticulously cultivated by their patriarch, Mihovil Mijo Popich, affectionately named Rizman.
Over the years, the estate has expanded to encompass 23 hectares of vineyards and 1,700 olive trees, meticulously tended by hand. Since 2006, the family has pioneered the establishment of new vineyards and olive groves in Komarna, Croatia's burgeoning winegrowing region. At this location, the Štimac family has spearheaded the concept of the Komarna winegrowing area, advocating for all producers to embrace organic practices. Notably, 90 per cent of the vineyard's produce comprises indigenous varieties such as Plavac mali and Pošip, alongside the charismatically forgotten Tribidrag variety. Check out their website here.
The winery has an outdoor terrace where visitors can enjoy the beautiful sea view while sampling speciality wines such as the Rizman Pošip, a dry white wine with aromas of ripe yellow fruits, wildflowers, and citrus notes. Wine tasting is available every working day from April to November, and guests can choose from various tasting experiences paired with local delicacies. Additionally, one newly opened room is available for guests to stay onsite. Another highlight of the premises is the chapel, the first building erected on the vineyard. Situated at the highest peak, 253 meters above sea level, the Chapel of Sveti Mihovil (St Michael) is home to a statue of St. Michael from the Basilica of the Monte Gargano Shrine in Italy, where the saint appeared in 462 AD.
The study focused on European vineyards known for producing high-quality wines in regions like Champagne, Bordeaux, and Tuscany. These vineyards are not only famous for their wines but also for their stunning landscapes. The study analysed over 500 top-rated vineyards in Europe to determine the most picturesque ones by examining the frequency of keywords like "beautiful" and "scenic" in Google reviews.
The study also examined Europe’s most beautiful vineyard wedding destinations. The English Oak Vineyard in Poole took first place. Next is the Tsiakkas Winery in Cyprus, which is located in the heart of the mountains and offers a stunning wedding setting. In third place is the Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room, known for its breathtaking views of the Asterousia Mountains. This vineyard, situated in Crete, is often referred to as “Little Tuscany” and promises a memorable wedding location.
Find out more about the study here.