A trip to Zmajevac is a right-of-passage for wine lovers - gorgeous vineyards, delectable food, and (of course) top-notch vino. And if you add an exquisite winery to this recipe, you've got a transcendent journey into oenophilic paradise. And we know just the place to make this dream a reality – Josić Winery!

Award-Winning Josić Winery

Situated amidst the captivating surroundings of a "surduk," a distinct hillside enclave housing wine cellars, Josić Winery offers not just exceptional wines but also authentic dishes that tantalize the palate in a manner truly unique to this area.

The surduk, renowned for its characteristic hillside cutouts accommodating wine cellars, creates an ideal climate for producing top-tier wines that have become synonymous with quality and a profound passion for viticulture. Perched on the southeastern slopes of Banovo Brdo, Zmajevac carries within its essence not just a rich history but also a vibrant present brought to life by Josić Winery.

The tale of the Josić family's connection with Zmajevac commenced in 1999 when they acquired an old wine cellar dating back to 1935 within the surduk of Planina, along with approximately 1.6 hectares of ancient vineyards. They meticulously restored and equipped the cellar with modern technology while striving to preserve its traditional appearance. Today, this site houses a renowned and successful restaurant, winery, and wine-tasting room.

Swirl, Sip, and Savor… And Indulge in Local Delights

Stepping into their restaurant, bathed in traditional rustic elements harmonizing with contemporary design solutions, every dish unfolds a narrative of Baranja. The gastronomic offerings astound: river fish specialties such as perkelt, paprikash, and smoked fish seamlessly blend with grilled game meats cooked over wood charcoal or beneath a bell-shaped lid. Each of these dishes is crafted with care, using the finest ingredients, and prepared using traditional methods—often within view of guests—to immerse them in the enchantment of Baranja with every bite. Their specialty is the čobanac, a spicy dish traditionally cooked over an open flame in large pots, infusing the unique flavors of Baranja.

Yet, it's not solely the food that beckons; their wines—like Cabernet Franc, Baranjski Šiler, Cuvée, Rose, or Cabernet Sauvignon—astound with their quality and distinctive flavors. Josić wines stem from authentic Baranja grape varieties maturing in ancient vineyards upon Banova Kosa. The Romans referred to Banova Kosa as the Golden Hill, inspired by the "golden drop," a natural nectar crafted from the fruits grown on its slopes—a description fitting for Josić wines. Adorned with numerous gold medals for quality and boasting original bottle labeling showcasing rare and endangered bird species indigenous to this area, these wines will leave you utterly captivated. Best of all, you can relish all of this within the restored wine cellar dating back to 1935 while a dish of your choice is expertly prepared for you. Amazing, right?

This wine haven isn't just about tasting; it's about experiencing the soul of Baranja. It's wandering through vineyards steeped in history, basking in the warmth of Croatian hospitality, and relishing in wines that echo the essence of this storied land. Josić Winery invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey—a wine lover's odyssey where every swirl, every bite, and every moment is an invitation to uncover the magic of Zmajevac and the allure of Josić's remarkable wines.