Zlatan Otok, the incredible winery and restaurant on the tiny Croatian island of Hvar is our favorite spot to stop and watch the world go by. Established in 1986, the winery was founded by one man, who turned his passion and love of Hvar into a business that has drawn much attention and accolades from around the world. Situated near the tiny town of Sveta Nedjelja, the restaurant is flanked by a beautiful little marina, and is an incredible spot to taste the vineyard’s offerings and sample true Dalmatian cuisine.
Zlatan Otok’s vineyards cascade down the steep mountains of Hvar and into the sea. The surrounding area is littered with lavender fields, tiny villages and olive groves with views of the open Adriatic as far as the eye can see. The entire operation is very casual, so it’s great to spend the morning swimming in the turquoise waters of the sea, and then head to the marina for plates of fresh cheese, meat and seafood that is paired perfectly with the vineyard’s wines.
The vineyards on Hvar are only a small part of those used in this operation. On the Croatian mainland, the areas of Makarska and Šibenik contain more vines owned by Zlatan Otok and help make all the varieties they offer. From deep, rich reds, to refreshing Rosé, crispy whites, like Pošip, and more – each bottle is delicious. I tasted all of their wines and there wasn’t one bad variety.
When visiting Hvar I suggest spending time here at Zlatan Otok. Not only can you pop-in for a wine tasting, but you can have dinner, some of the best seafood on the island, at their marina-front restaurant. You just cannot miss this experience while on Hvar.