NEAR DUBROVNIK - Croatia and Slovenia - page 556

The reds are the real draw here; I'd skip the whites. The wines, which are quite fruity,
come in various types. In general, bottles marked with the type of grape (plavac mali) are
lower-quality, from the vines here in the valley. The ones marked with the specific region
(Dinga č and Postup) come from the sunny slopes and are of better quality, fuller-bodied,
and more expensive; they go well with red meat and dark chocolate. Winery staff enjoy
explaining (often with the help of photos) that the climate and growing conditions are en-
tirely different in the valley than in the extremely steep and sun-drenched Dinga č area,
just over the mountain and facing the sea; it's far easier to harvest the valley grapes than
the Dinga č grapes, which makes Dinga č much higher-priced...but worth paying extra for.
All three wineries also have various brandies to try (including travarica , an herb-infused
brandy).
First, near the far end of town, look for the big, pink building of the Madirazza winery.
Noticetherosesthatlinethevineyards—likeacanaryinacoalmine,thesearemorequickly
affected by disease than the vines, offering an early-warning system in the event of an un-
wanted infestation. Madirazza's oaky, fairly acidic wines cost 40-90 kn per bottle (reserve
bottles for 130-240 kn, mobile [phone], www.dingac.hr , Mina).
Across the main road from Madirazza's parking lot is a smaller road (marked with
Matuško and Tunel Dinga č signs) leading to the Matuško winery. With smoother wines