Neretva Valley Wine Region

The Neretva Valley, also known as Narenta Valley, is a valley containing one of the major rivers in the Adriatic basin's eastern section. The Neretva delta is generated by the deposition of upper basin sediments. The area is exceptionally fertile and is utilized for growing various vegetables and grapes. Metkovic, a town in the Neretva Valley, is home to Europe's second-largest ornithological collection. Komin and Vid, one of the most important Roman cities on the Croatian Adriatic, are also in the valley. In Croatia, Neretva is also well-known as an eel habitat. Tangerines, frogs, eels, boats, and wine are all famous in the valley.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Neretva Valley!

Where is the Neretva Valley wine region?

The Neretva Valley is located on the northernmost tip of Croatia, where it meets the Adriatic Sea. The Valley is around 100 kilometers northwest of Dubrovnik and 31 kilometers northwest of Neum. Metković, Ploče, Opuzen, Kula Norinska, Pojezerje, Slivno, and Zažablje are all part of the beautiful green Neretva wine district. Since the beginning of time, the Neretva river has flowed across the valley to the Adriatic, creating the garden of Dubrovnik. Split takes 2 hours and Zadar takes 2.5 hours to get to the valley. Explore the unspoiled wilderness, underground cities, and infinite green meadows.

History of the Neretva Valley wine region

Viticulture in the Neretva Valley began in the 18th century along the Neretva River's banks. During this time, the vines were extensively planted, attracting many people to relocate to the valley. The valley was exceptionally fruitful, and the vines adapted well to the soils and temperature. The Greeks took control of the land and continued wine production while also developing viticulture and wine-making processes. The wine business in the Neretva valley peaked until the late nineteenth century when it was destroyed by phylloxera. Following the infestation, vine growers began to use resistant roots. Plavka, an ancient indigenous grape variety, vanished at the turn of the twentieth century.

The terroir and geography of the Neretva Valley wine region

The Neretva Valley is one of Croatia's most fertile places, with the Neretva River running through it to the Adriatic Sea. Despite its location on the Croatian Adriatic, the region is significantly distinct geographically. With over 2700 hours of sunshine each year, the region has a Mediterranean climate that makes it excellent for vine growth. Upper basin sediment deposition is responsible for the formation of the Neretva delta. The area is very fertile, and it is utilized to grow a variety of vegetables and grapes. The largest vineyard in Croatia is located in the Pojezerje region of the Neretva Valley.

Popular grape varieties from the Neretva Valley wine region

The main grape variety in the Neretva Valley is Plavac Mali which is used to produce Dingač. Another important grape is Pošip, an indigenous variety of the Dubrovnik-Neretva. Over 40 of Croatia's 130 autochthonous vine varietals can be found in the Neretva Valley including Cabernet franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Bratkovina, Muškat ruža crni, Muškat žuti, Ninčuša, Plavac mali crni, Plavac mali sivi, Plavina, Vlaška, Vranac, Vugava, Zlatarica, and Žilavka. The wine world was taken aback when the Chardonnay from the Neretva valley was declared the best in a blind test in Paris. Neretva will provide you with a memorable experience. Spend your time exploring the heritage, gastronomy, and culture - you will be pleasantly surprised.

Food to pair with Neretva Valley wine 

Fritz and Sauce

The Fritz and sauce sandwich is a traditional Australian sandwich. It's made out of two slices of bread, tomato sauce, and a fritz. Fritz is low-cost sausage meat that appears to be created from beef, lamb, and pork trimmings. The bread is buttered first, and then the fritz slice is placed on top. The tomato sauce is then poured over it, followed by the second slice of bread. It goes well with wines from the Neretva Valley.

Chicken Kyiv

Chicken Kiev or Chicken Kyiv is cooked from the boned chicken breast that has been hammered flat and then seasoned with cooling herbs and butter. It is then dredged in breadcrumbs or flour and cooked in hot oil until golden and crispy. The dish is well-known around the world, although its origin is unknown. The dish is thought to have originated in Ukraine, Russia, or France. The dish became popular in the 1970s.

Sashimi

Sashimi, or thinly sliced raw fish, shrimp, or pork, is a popular Japanese dish. Soy sauce, wasabi, and other seasonings are commonly included in the dish. Depending on the chef and the occasion, the supper can be prepared in a variety of ways. The slices are sliced in a range of styles, from extremely thin to thick. Popular sashimi accompaniments include shiso leaves, seaweed, and salads. This dish pairs well with Neretva Valley wines, which improve the flavor of both.

Places to visit in the Neretva Valley wine region

Norin Tower

The tower is said to be built during the 16th century as a monumental fortress near the Neretva River just opposite the Norin tributary. The Norin tower was a bulwark of the Ottoman empire to stand against attacks from Venetian ships. The tower served military purposes until the 19th century and was later converted into a mill. The tower stands just next to the main road at the entrance of Metkovic. The tower has seven stories but only a few remain above the sinking marshland. Nowadays, the tower is one of the most valuable cultural and historical monuments in Croatia. 

Baćina Lakes

Baćina Lakes is a breathtaking combination of seven lakes out of which six forms a blue-collar. The lakes are just 30km from the Zivogosce Blato and are near the port of Ploce. The lakes are all interconnected with fresh water which has been a habitat for different animal species. There is also the possibility to take a boat ride on the river. You can also enjoy cycling, walking, and hiking around the lake. The area also offers beach bars to enjoy the landscapes. Baćina Lakes is a peaceful oasis and is one of the rare tranquil spots in the Croatian coastal area. Relax your body and soul around these astonishing lakes. You can visit this place in summer and autumn.

Frequently asked questions about Neretva Valley