Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean lies Istria, a beautiful peninsula known for its stunning coastal towns, ancient ruins, and delicious cuisine. But did you know that Istria is also home to some of the best wineries in the region? With its fertile soil, sunny climate, and centuries-old winemaking tradition, Istria is a true paradise for wine lovers. In this article, we will guide you through the wine roads of Istria and show you where to taste some of the finest wines in Croatia.
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First, let's start with some basics. Istria has three major wine regions: Buje, Poreč, and Pazin. Each region has its own unique terroir and grape varieties, resulting in a wide range of wines to choose from. Some of the most popular grape varieties in Istria include Malvazija, Teran, and Muscat, but there are also many other indigenous and international varieties to discover. One of the best ways to explore the wine roads of Istria is by taking a wine tour. Many companies offer guided tours of the region, taking you to some of the most scenic wineries and vineyards. Some also include food pairings and visits to local landmarks, making for a truly immersive experience. If you prefer to explore on your own, you can also rent a car and follow the wine roads yourself. The roads are well-marked and easy to navigate, and there are plenty of signs pointing to wineries and cellars along the way.

So, where should you go for wine tasting in Istria? Here are some of our top picks:

Kozlović Winery: 

Located in the Valle valley, below the medieval castle of Momjan, the Kozlović Winery is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in Istria. Their goal is to preserve indigenous Istrian varieties honoring the region and heritage, and we have to admit, they are doing it pretty well. Their Malvazija and Teran wines are particularly famous, and you can taste them in their cozy tasting room or on their panoramic terrace overlooking the vineyards. When ordering the wine, definitely order their gourmet cheese and cured meat platter. It's epic! With a great selection of fine Istria's cheeses, cured meat such as prosciutto, sausages, and little gourmet bites – it's a bit of a can't stop, won't stop situation that goes really good with a glass of Malvazija wine.

Kabola Winery:

This organic winery in Buje is known for its excellent Malvazija and sparkling wines. Their tasting room is located in a beautifully restored stone house, and you can also take a guided tour of their vineyards and cellars.

Meneghetti Winery: 

Set in a stunning estate near Bale, the Meneghetti Winery offers a luxurious wine-tasting experience. You can taste their award-winning wines in their elegant tasting room or on their terrace overlooking the olive groves and vineyards.

Franc Arman Winery: 

''A tradition in a glass,'' Franc Arman Winery has been producing wines since 1850. Located in the picturesque town of Vižinada, this family-owned winery offers a broad spectrum of flavors and aromas, from fresh and fruity whites to complex reds. You can try Malvasia, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Malvasia Classic, Rosé, Dolcetto, and Perla Bianca. At the same time, among the red wines, you can choose Cabernet Franc, Teran, Merlot, and Teran Barrique. Their tasting room is in a charming stone house, and you can also tour their vineyards and cellar. 

We have only mentioned a few of the many wineries worth visiting in Istria - the Veralda winery, Benvenuti winery, Collis, and Rossi winery, are also worth visiting. Following the wine roads and visiting the local wineries, you can experience the best of Istria's wine culture and discover some truly exceptional wines. Cheers to that! So give yourself more than one day, and check them out all! Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or a curious beginner, there's something for everyone on the wine roads of Istria. So why not pack your bags and explore this beautiful region, one glass of wine at a time?