Herzegovina Wine Route

The Hidden Side of the Mediterranean

HWR

Herzegovina Wine Route

About HWR

Welcome to the Herzegovina Wine Route, a journey that will take you through the stunning southern region of Bosnia and Herzegovina!

The Herzegovina Wine Route is a unity between the region’s authentic quality wines and the hospitality of its people and home to around 30 wineries, vast vineyards, great gastronomy ranging from hearty rustic dishes to elevated culinary experiences, and quality accommodations, all linked by their shared commitment to regional winemaking traditions.

Read more

Herzegovina is known for its Mediterranean climate, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural heritage, attracting visitors from around the world. As you explore the dramatic Herzegovinian karst landscape, you will be treated to sweeping views of expansive vineyards, embedded with an historical thread that has contributed to the culture of local communities. The production of celebrated, quality regional wine is deeply rooted in the Herzegovinian landscape, and the region’s exceptional wine pairs perfectly with the warm hospitality of its people.

Today, Herzegovina is known for a selection of authentic wines, the most notable being Žilavka, Blatina, Trnjak, and Vranac.
Come and explore the Herzegovina Wine Route, and discover a landscape that will sate all your senses. From the patient, strong grapevines to the warm hospitality of the locals, you will be treated to a journey through a land that is touched by sun and wind, producing distinctive regional wines that have been enjoyed throughout history.

The Herzegovina Wine Route (HWR) was established in 2007 by the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton Tourism Board as part of a project funded by the European Union. On that occasion, the initial mapping and networking of key stakeholders were carried out, laying down solid foundations for HWR’s future development. With the support of the U.S. Government through the USAID Turizam project, in 2020 the BiH Foreign Trade Chamber commenced activities on the revitalization of the HWR, with the aim of establishing the region as a leading wine tourism destination.

HWR

Presenting the HWR Varieties

Blatina

This red wine is characterized by its deep color and full-bodied flavor, making it a popular choice for pairing with hearty stews and game dishes. Blatina is aged in oak barrels, which adds a touch of vanilla and smoky notes to the wine, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. The grape is grown in the rocky and dry terrain of Herzegovina, which gives the wine its distinctive taste.

Žilavka

Zilavka is a white wine with delicate floral and citrus notes that pairs perfectly with trout, cheese, and other light dishes. It is often aged in oak barrels, which adds complexity to the wine and creates a rich texture. The grape is grown in the rocky soils of Herzegovina, which gives it a distinctive minerality and a long finish.

Vranac

Vranac is a well-known grape variety in the Balkans, and Herzegovina is no exception. This red wine is known for its rich, fruity flavor, with notes of blackberry, raspberry, and plum. It is aged in oak barrels, which adds complexity to the wine and creates a rich and velvety texture. The grape is grown in the rocky soils of Herzegovina, which give it a unique and intense flavor.

Trnjak

This red wine is a lesser-known variety in Herzegovina but is equally delicious and unique. Trnjak is characterized by its deep color and intense flavor, with notes of blackberry, cherry, and tobacco. It is often aged in oak barrels, which adds a touch of vanilla and smoky notes to the wine, creating a complex and layered flavor profile. The grape is grown in the stony and arid soils of Herzegovina, which give it a distinctive and robust taste.

Experience

Some of the must see places across Herzegovina!

Mostar
Čitluk
Ljubuški
Čapljina
Stolac
Trebinje
See the interactive Map

HWR

Media

HWR

HWR is Iter Vitis Certified

Iter Vitis is part of the Cultural Route of the Council of Europe, which celebrates some of Europe’s most distinctive wine destinations alongside their beautiful landscapes, preserved way of life, and cultural-historical, and material heritage. As of September 2022, the Herzegovina Wine Route in Bosnia and Herzegovina is recognized as the new member of the Iter Vitis, joining other well-known routes and destinations.