Rizman Winery is a Croatian family-owned business that proudly produces wines from organically grown grapes in their own vineyards. The winemaking tradition of the Štimac family goes back to the early 20th century, initiated by Mihovil Mijo Popich, known as Rizman, who first planted vineyards in the Neretva valley in Opuzen. Despite setbacks due to vine diseases that led him to emigrate, Rizman returned and replanted new vines. Thus a legacy of viticulture was established that his descendants have continued.

In 2006, the current generation of the Štimac family (Damir Štimac is a Professionnel du Vin member of the Chaîne) took a bold step to revive this heritage by planting 22 hectares of new vineyards and 1,700 olive trees in the Komarna winegrowing area, Croatia’s youngest wine region. The family was influential in creating and promoting Komarna, where all producers are certified organic. By 2012, they had built a modern winery.

The Rizman vineyards primarily focus on the indigenous Croatian grape varieties, such as Plavac Mali and Pošip, and the rare Tribidrag, emphasising their commitment to authenticity and heritage. The winery bears their great-grandfather’s nickname Rizman to honour his legacy.

The winery’s philosophy is an organic, sustainable approach. Wild plants are encouraged to grow alongside the vines, keeping the soil natural and unblemished. The Štimac family view their wines as more than just a product. They see them as an expression of their family’s devotion and connection to the land. Each wine is carefully nurtured in their cellar. Treated with the same care as a family member. They strive to preserve both the tradition and integrity of their winemaking process.

Rizman’s estate offers not just exceptional wines but also a unique visitor experience. The Chapel of St. Michael, built at the highest point of the vineyard, symbolizes the family’s deep spiritual connection to the land. With breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, the Pelješac Bridge, and nearby islands, visitors can enjoy wine tastings while soaking up the natural beauty. The winery’s location is only a short distance from Dubrovnik and Split. It offers an intimate escape for guests, with four exclusive rooms and traditional cuisine crafted from local ingredients, paired with their award-winning wines and olive oils.

In addition to wine, the Rizman estate also produces organic extra-virgin olive oil from their olive trees. The olives are handpicked. Each variety is harvested and processed separately to maintain its unique characteristics. The oils are produced using a cold press method and are stored under precise conditions to ensure quality. The selection of olive oils includes blends like “mild”, “intense” and “selection”, with single-variety options depending on the harvest’s success.

Rizman is a perfect representation of the region’s commitment to organic viticulture and olive oil production. It is a prime example of where visitors can immerse themselves in the best of Dalmatia’s natural and cultural heritage.

With appreciation to Rizman Winery for information from their website for this article.

Rizman Winery
Stolovi 2
20356 Klek

Web: rizman.com.hr/en/
Tel: +385 91 333 8033