ISTRIAN MALVASIA
Native to the Istrian peninsula of Croatia, this white grape found its second home in the neighbouring Slovenia. Istrian Malvasia makes round, harmonious white and orange wines with a mellow palate and charming fruity and floral aromas.
Overview
Istrian Malvasia got its name from the largest peninsula in Croatia and is considered to be an indigenous Istrian wine variety. Despite the fact that there are a few other Malvasia grapes cultivated in the Mediterranean region, DNA tests proved that Istrian Malvasia is not related to any of them. It is a unique, distinctive grape, whose origin remains somewhat of a mystery.
What is known is that Istrian Malvasia has been cultivated on territory of modern Croatia for many centuries. Nevertheless, the first written record of the grape dates back to 1891 when it was described for a wine expo in Zagreb.
Today, in addition to its native Croatia, this grape is widely spread in neighbouring Slovenia and Italy. In the vineyard, Istrian Malvasia can be quite fruitful. Therefore, rigorous control of the yields is key to obtaining high quality wines.
Aromas And Styles
Istrian Malvasia makes round, harmonious wines with fruity and floral aromas. These wines exhibit pleasant notes of apples and stone fruits, such as peaches and apricots, as well as hints of acacia blossom and almonds. With medium levels of acidity and a deliciously fruity palate, Istrian Malvasia wines are favourites with those who prefer their whites less tangy and on the mellow side.
In Slovenia, Istrian Malvasia grapes are often vinified on the skins, making aromatic orange wines with a well-balanced, silky palate. Istrian Malvasia creates marvellous pairings with roast chicken, pork, pastas, risottos and with most of the mediterranean-style starters, from prosciutto and melon to truffle arancini.
