Istrian wine has never been more exciting. A cohort of passionate, often young winemakers are producing wines of genuine character — rooted in local tradition but open to the world. Their stories are as compelling as their bottles.
A Generation of Change
The shift began in the 1990s, when a handful of winemakers began taking Malvazija Istriana and Teran seriously as the basis for wines that could stand alongside the best in Europe. Today, that commitment has produced a wine culture of real depth.
- Over 100 registered wineries, ranging from 1-hectare family estates to larger cooperatives
- Indigenous varieties: Malvazija Istriana, Teran, Muskat Momjanski
- Growing interest in natural, biodynamic, and organic winemaking
- International recognition at Decanter, Mundus Vini, and other competitions
The New Wave
Many of today most exciting Istrian winemakers trained in France, Italy, or Austria before returning to apply their knowledge to local varieties. The result is wine that bridges tradition and innovation.
Malvazija was always great wine. We just had to stop being afraid of it and let it be itself.
Winery Visits
- Most wineries require advance booking for tastings
- The Vinistra fair in Porec each May offers the best overview
- Wine routes around Porec, Buje, and Brtonigla
