Ivica Džapo

Ivica Džapo, owner of the Lasina d.o.o. winery, is a symbol of dedication to viticulture in the Promina region, between Drniš and Knin. Born into a winemaking family, Džapo grew up with his grandfather and father, both vintners, and alongside numerous animals, which he speaks of today with nostalgia. Although he built his career as an economist, his love for the land brought him back to his roots. In retirement, he has fully dedicated himself to the vineyards and the winery.

Today, the Lasina winery cultivates about 6.7 hectares of vineyards, where white varieties dominate: Debit and Maraština, while the red varieties include the indigenous Lasina and Merlot. They produce 20,000–25,000 liters of wine annually, which they mostly supply to restaurants in the Šibenik-Knin County. The winery's name comes from the Lasina grape variety – a soft, easy-drinking red wine that is a symbol of the region, while Debit is their award-winning flagship wine.

The Džapo family has been involved in viticulture for over sixty years. During the Homeland War, they had to abandon their vineyards, but upon their return, they rebuilt everything that had been destroyed. Today, they cultivate over 32,000 vines. For Džapo, viticulture is not just a job, but a life's passion and a family tradition: 'When you see the fruit, the yield, and tomorrow the harvest – that is happiness and satisfaction,' he says.

The microclimate between the Promina mountain and the Krka river also plays a special role. Warm days, cool nights, and the beneficial influence of the Krka create ideal conditions for the grapevine. 'Promina gives us the climate, while the Krka brings gentleness and softens the turbulence,' Džapo explains. Such conditions, combined with a love for the land, are the key to producing premium wines.