Valamar Blog

The oldest wine sort known in Istria is without a doubt Malvasia. Its history goes back at least 700 years, to the period of the Venetian Republic and the successful wine trade from the areas of the Peloponnese Peninsula and the Greek islands. It is believed that the Venetian merchants brought Malvasia to Istria from the Greek town of Monemvasia (Italian: Malvasia), since this sort of grapes had been grown in its hinterland.

Today, Malvasia is the dominating wine sort in Istria and it covers more than 60 % of its surface area. The wine is of a straw-yellow colour with greenish reflections, an intoxicating scent which reminds of elder, vanilla and certain minerals. The flavour is harmonious, fluent and persevering. It is served with fish, shells, squid and other regional dishes at a temperature of 8-10°C.

For the first time ever, the World of Malvasia, an international competition of Malvasia wines, will take place in Porec from 15 to 18 April. Producers from the Mediterranean countries (Italy, Slovenia, Portugal, Spain; Greece, France), where this sort of wine has spread out, are invited to assess the wine, but also to work together on the protection, preservation and development of Malvasia. The wine assessment will be held on 15 and 16 April at the Valamar Diamant Hotel, and the results will be announced on 29 April, on the first day of Vinistra.

Vinistra is a manifestation with a record number of participants - wine exhibitors from the country and abroad. During the week of the World of Malvasia and Vinistra, from 22 April, the spirit of wine manifestations will be taken to the streets of Porec where a rich wine and gastronomic offer and an entertainment programme await you. Come and experience Porec, Istria and Malvasia…in vino veritas!