Bibich Winery was founded in 1906 in the village of Plastovo, located in the coastal town of Skradin, Croatia.  The Winery first started producing wine primarily for family consumption.  Today, the winery is owned and run by Alen Bibich, one of the most sought after winemakers in all of Croatia, who has put Skradin on the global wine map.

Alen first learned the art of grape growing and winemaking from his grandfather, but he continues to evolve at his craft.  He focuses on native grape varietals, such as the white Debit and red Zinfandel cousins:  Babic, Plavina and Lasin. He also is passionate about Grenache and Syrah and makes sublime Rhone-style reds.

I was fortunate enough to have met Alen in New York City nearly 15 years ago and have been visiting his Winery ever since. The tasting room is located in Plastovo about an hour north of Split and is accessible by car. It is open most days; however, please call ahead as reservations are required.  Upon arrival, Alen will welcome you with open arms and a glass of Bibich Brut Sparkling (traditional method) made from the local grape varietal Debit.

My go-to Bibich wines available in the U.S.:

Bibich Brut NV: Made from 100% Debit grape varietal, this sparkling wine is refreshing, crisp  with notes of citrus and flowers. Bibich uses the traditional method (a.k.a.  Methode Champenoise, second fermentation takes place in the bottle) to produce this delightful sparkling. Great aperitif and pairs well with seafood.

Bibich Debit 2016 Plastovo: Debit is Bibich’s signature white grape varietal. This particular wine is fresh and easy to drink. It is perfect by itself, but does pair well with fried seafood and light Mediterranean fair.

Bibich G6 Grenache 2015 Nadin: This 100% Grenache comes from an old vineyard in Nadin (near Zadar, about an hour north of Skradin). Alen draws his inspiration from the Rhone Valley to produce this delicious Grenache. Aged in French oak for a year, the G6 shows notes of olives, “garrigue”, crushed pepper and dark fruit and pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats. 

The late great Anthony Bourdain once visited Bibich Winery while filming 'No Reservations' Croatia.

Bourdain asked Bibich: “Why are the wines so good here?” And my personal answer to that is: Go see for yourself, you won’t be disappointed!

Cheers,

Anna

Tasting flight options are offered with tasty tapas-style bites (optional) prepared by Alen’s wife, Vesna, a talented Chef trained in molecular gastronomy.

Reservations by Phone:  +385.91.323.5729 or Email:  estate@bibich-wine.com

Tasting Room & Winery address:  Zapadna Ulica 63, 22222 Plastovo, Croatia