Situated near Dubrovnik in Croatia, Komarna’s hilly terrain is covered with boulders and dense thickets, making it an unlikely spot for a wine adventure. Many doubted whether this rocky land could ever yield ripe, juicy fruits. However, Stipe and Damir Dominikovic, along with Davor Martinovic, decided to take on the challenge of turning this barren landscape into a vineyard.
Starting with transforming the rocky hill, they geared up to cultivate at least 5 hectares of vines. The challenges were numerous but they were determined to defy conventional wisdom. Today, over 16 hectares of vineyards with 125,000 vines flourish here. At the top of a small hill stands the Terra Madre winery, equipped with large wine containers and wooden barrels. There’s also a 400 m2 space for wine tasting, paired with local delicacies like cheese, prosciutto, and anchovies. From the terrace, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the clear blue sea, the Neretva bay, and the vineyards of the Pelješac peninsula.
Komarna is now the youngest wine-producing region in Croatia, thanks to the hard work of Davor, Damir, and Stipe. Plavac Mali, an indigenous Croatian grape variety, thrives in this harsh environment. Alongside Plavac Mali, smaller quantities of French Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon are also grown, adding softness to the wine. Plavac Mali is a cross between the Tribidrag (Zinfandel) and Dobričić varieties, producing wines rich in sugars, acids, and sharp flavors.
The Terra Madre winery produces five types of wine, with two reds made from Plavac Mali. These wines age in wooden barrels for up to three years. Their premium Plavac Mali wine, made from specially selected vineyards, has even won a silver medal at the Decanter wine fair in London. Vedrana Martinovic Trutina, Davor’s daughter, is proud of their achievements and dreams of entering new international markets.
In addition to red wines, the combination of Plavac Mali and Syrah produces a mild rosé, popular in the Dubrovnik area. Their white wine, Pošip, pairs well with Adriatic seafood. The quality of Komarna wines has been recognized overseas, with Mirena Bagur, an American of Croatian descent, introducing these wines to the U.S. market under the brand K7.
At Terra Madre, oenologists Marko Šuman and Gorana Dominikovic meticulously oversee the wine-making process, ensuring quality through daily tastings. They embody the dedication and expertise required to produce high-quality wines.
Future plans for Terra Madre include opening a luxury restaurant featuring traditional meats, grilled fish, and homemade desserts. The new venue aims to offer guests an unforgettable gastronomic experience, enhanced by the breathtaking views from the terrace.
Visiting this magical place in Komarna promises an experience of excellent wine, delicious food, and stunning landscapes.
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