Alen Bibic is one of Croatia’s leading winemakers..it is always a pleasure to visit his vineyard and cellar at Plastovo in the hills near Skradin on the Krka River. Being greeted by the man himself and treated to a superbly chilled Bibich Brut Rose` was a VERY special occasion…

Alen Bibi?, a brilliant entrepreneur as well as a winemaker has led the renaissance of viticulture in once ravaged wine lands of Central Dalmatia

The Bibich Vineyards are about 500 years old. During the recent Homeland War, there was severe fighting in this area, and many of the vines were destroyed. Alen set about restoring his grandfather’s pride and joy, and today has excelled in the production of quality wines, marketing, and wine tourism. Arriving at 13.00 pm we were welcomed into the atmospheric courtyard, potted red geraniums, terracotta, and tasting tables under a shady grapevine…..

Our group of Australians were delighted with the Bibic vintages and the special attention to food presentation and wine parings….

The courtyard told its own story…limestone,  pebbles, red geraniums, terracotta…that’s Dalmatia!

Alen is to be admired because Bibich international success was based on his Debit and a red blend, R6; these two wines made from grapes indigenous to Central Dalmatia were previously considered as second-class varietals useful only for making bland, bulk wines. He proved the locals wrong and practically saved these varietals from extinction.

The cuisine was sensational. One of the entrees was a delicious veal risotto, called ‘Skradinski Ri?oto’ a well-known specialty in this area, slowly simmered for 8 hours, rice being added in the last 10 minutes, and sprinkled with 24 ct gold dust…a known aphrodisiac! WOW! It was a taste sensation.!

My Australian and American guests really enjoyed a superb 6-course degustation menu paired with a range of finest wines, Bibich R5,R6, Debit, Sangreal, Bas de Bas, and ending with dessert wines. Thank You Alen Bibi? and Team!

Robyn Vulinovich