Negotians Vinarius

“Marinovic family has two vineyards – just over a hectare in total – of local Pošip and Plavac varieties. They are organic farmers out of conviction on an island that’s still finding its way to organic agriculture. They used to make wines in their garage for themselves, and then sold some at the door to those that passed by – never really actively or outside the island itself,” says Kovac. 

Winegrowing on Korčula predates Christ. In fact, it was one of the key islands of today’s Croatia to supply the Roman court with grapes and wines at the height of the Empire’s rule. The traders of wine between the islands and Rome were called Negotians Vinarius.

About the Winemaker

Negotians Vinarius

"Located on the picturesque southern Croatian island of Korčula, Negotians Vinarius embodies a harmonious collaboration between the Marinovic family, local organic farmers led by a seasoned patriarch, and Marko Kovac, the visionary founder of Austria-based Karakterre wine salon. Rooted in the rich winemaking heritage of Korčula, the project is not only a testament to preserving tradition but also a catalyst for shaping the island's agricultural future through natural, terroir-driven winemaking.

"The Marinovic family tends to two modest vineyards totaling just over a hectare, cultivating indigenous Pošip and Plavac varieties.

The Region

Dalmatia, Croatia

Dalmatia, located along the Adriatic coast of Croatia, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, ancient cities, and rich winemaking tradition. In recent years, the region has also become a focal point for natural winemaking. With its diverse terroir, including limestone soils, coastal breezes, and ample sunshine, Dalmatia offers an ideal environment for sustainable viticulture. Natural winemakers here prioritize organic and biodynamic farming methods, cultivating indigenous grape varieties such as Plavac Mali, Posip, and Malvasia Istriana with minimal intervention. By eschewing chemical additives and focusing on natural fermentation, they produce wines that capture the essence of the land. Dalmatia's natural wines are known for their freshness, purity, and vibrant fruit flavors, with reds offering rich, spicy notes and whites showcasing crisp acidity and minerality. As the demand for authentic and terroir-driven wines continues to grow, Dalmatia remains a leader in the natural wine movement, offering a taste of Croatia's rich cultural heritage and Mediterranean charm with each bottle.