Abstract
This paper examines a GIS-based methodology for assessing wine tourism potential as a tool for rural development, focusing on the wine-growing regions of Šumadija (Serbia) and Slavonia (Croatia). The proposed approach combines Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with a multi-criteria decision-making method based on open-source data. By applying spatial overlay, hotspot analysis, and index-based evaluation, the study identifies zones with high potential for wine tourism and developmental gaps. The WTDI (Wine Tourism Development Index) provides a transferable and replicable model for identifying wine tourism development zones in regions with limited data availability. The results revealed apparent spatial differences between the regions (urban and peri-urban areas such as Kragujevac, Aranđelovac, and Topola in Šumadija show higher tourism potential, while Slavonia displays a more balanced distribution of tourism potential, with notable hotspots around Požega, Kutjevo, and Daruvar). At the same time, both regions demonstrate a strong foundation for future wine tourism development, underpinned by improved wine quality and rich cultural heritage. However, neither region has yet reached the maturity associated with established wine tourism destinations. The WTDI model offers a scalable and replicable tool for identifying tourism development zones in data-scarce contexts. This study underscores the importance of evidence-based, spatially informed planning in unlocking the untapped wine tourism potential of rural regions. The proposed methodology offers a low-cost, replicable framework for local governments and development agencies to make data-informed decisions in promoting sustainable rural tourism.