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Istria and Kvarner

Croatia
Top Subregions: Istria and KvarnerIstra

Region Description

Istria and Kvarner are two neighboring wine regions located in the northwest of Croatia, along the Adriatic Sea. Istria is known for its Italian influence and produces a range of red and white wines, while Kvarner is famous for its indigenous grape varieties and unique wine styles.

Beautiful landscape of Istria and Kvarner wine region

Grapes & Wine Styles

In Istria, the main grape varieties include Malvasia Istriana, Teran, and Refosco. Malvasia Istriana is used to produce crisp, aromatic white wines, while Teran and Refosco are used for bold, full-bodied red wines. In Kvarner, the indigenous grape varieties include Žlahtina, which produces light, refreshing white wines, and Vrbnička Žlahtina, a unique sparkling wine.

Notable Producers

In Istria, the main grape varieties include Malvasia Istriana, Teran, and Refosco. Malvasia Istriana is used to produce crisp, aromatic white wines, while Teran and Refosco are used for bold, full-bodied red wines. In Kvarner, the indigenous grape varieties include Žlahtina, which produces light, refreshing white wines, and Vrbnička Žlahtina, a unique sparkling wine.

Fun Fact about Istria and Kvarner
Istria is home to the world's largest truffle, which was discovered in 1999 and weighed 1.31 kg (2.88 lbs). The region is also famous for its olive oil and is often referred to as the 'New Tuscany'.

Top Wines from Istria and Kvarner

Bottle of Kozlović Malvazija from search results

Kozlović Malvazija

Kozlović

User Rating:
4.0
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.3
Kozlović Malvazija is a highly regarded white wine produced in the Istria region of Croatia. This wine is crafted by a renowned family-owned winery that has been producing exceptional wines for generations. The vineyards where the grapes are grown benefit from the unique microclimate and limestone-rich soil, which contribute to the wine's distinct character. The winemaking process involves careful selection and hand-harvesting of the grapes, followed by gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The resulting wine is crisp, refreshing, and vibrant, with notes of citrus, white flowers, and a hint of minerality. Kozlović Malvazija is a perfect choice for those seeking a high-quality white wine that beautifully showcases the unique terroir of Istria.
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Food Pairing:
Salad
Seafood
Shellfish
Shrimp
Tuna And Swordfish
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$20.75
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1 Vintage Available
Bottle of Clai Ottocento Crni from search results

Clai Ottocento Crni Natural

Clai

User Rating:
4.2
Highly Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.3
Clai Ottocento Crni is a captivating red wine. Hailing from Istra, this wine is crafted from grapes grown in exceptional vineyards. The vineyard features contribute to the wine's unique character, with its distinct terroir and favorable climate. The winemaking process is carefully executed, resulting in a wine that beautifully expresses its varietal characteristics. With its elegant style, Clai Ottocento Crni offers a delightful balance of flavors and aromas.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Chicken
Pork
Pasta
Burger, Sandwich And Wrap
Vegetable
Asian Food
Pizza
Noodle
Cheese
Game
Curry
Duck And Goose
Lasagna
Ham And Bacon
Egg
Mushroom
Casserole
Turkey
Sausage
Risotto
Toufu
Miso
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$43.99
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1 Vintage Available
Bottle of Kozlović Teran from search results

Kozlović Teran

Kozlović

User Rating:
3.9
Highly Reviewed
Expert Rating:
3.8
The Kozlović family has been making wine in Croatia's Istrian region since 1904, earning them a well-respected reputation in the area. Produced from the Kozlovic family's 30-year-old Teran vines. The Teran grape variety, is known for its deep color and high acidity. The grapes are carefully hand-harvested and fermented, then aged in oak barrels. The resulting wine is nice balanced with its lively acidity, fruity notes, gentle tannins, and bold aromas of dark berries and spice.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Chicken
Pork
Soup
Vegetable
Asian Food
Pizza
Thai
Lamb
Cheese
Game
Ham And Bacon
Mushroom
Casserole
Sausage
Risotto
Potato
Fish
Corn Meal
Quiche And Savoury Tart
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$20.75
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2 Vintages Available
Bottle of Fakin Teran from search results

Fakin Teran

Fakin

User Rating:
3.8
Regularly Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.5
Fakin Teran is a distinguished red wine hailing from the Istrian region, renowned for its robust and unique flavor profile. Produced by the esteemed Fakin Winery, this wine showcases Teran, the region's most significant red grape variety. The grapes are meticulously harvested by hand, ensuring only the highest quality fruit makes it into the wine. Maceration and fermentation occur over a meticulous 21-day period, followed by pressing and aging in stainless steel tanks for 8 months. This careful process results in a wine that maintains its fresh, fruity character while developing a nuanced depth. With its balanced acidity and bold flavors, Fakin Teran offers a true taste of Istrian viticulture.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Chicken
Pork
Soup
Vegetable
Asian Food
Pizza
Thai
Lamb
Cheese
Game
Ham And Bacon
Mushroom
Casserole
Sausage
Risotto
Potato
Fish
Corn Meal
Quiche And Savoury Tart
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$19.99
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2 Vintages Available