PHOTOS: Record crowds as Istria’s wineries open their doors
- by croatiaweek
- in Food & Wine
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
The 24th edition of the Open Cellar Days in Istria was characterised by an exceptional atmosphere, attracting wine enthusiasts from far and wide.
Approximately fifty wineries and distilleries across Istria participated in the event.
The celebration officially commenced on Sunday morning at the Bastian Winery in Buje, which was recently crowned the champion in the young Malvasia category at the 15th World of Malvasia.
Visitors were given a wine passport upon purchasing an entry ticket in the form of a wristband at one of seven designated points/wineries.
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
This passport allowed them to collect stamps from each winery they visited and where they sampled wines. While the number of wineries a visitor could explore was unlimited, reservations via email were necessary to secure spots at desired locations, effectively preventing overcrowding.
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
The event proved to be highly attractive, with over 700 tickets sold online, generating more than 7,000 euros. These funds will be allocated to a new vineyard project focused on the clonal selection of Teran.
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
This ambitious 100,000-euro project, spearheaded by the Vinistra association, aims to preserve and promote the Istrian Teran grape variety, which has shown remarkable results in recent years.
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
Collaborating with experts from the Institute of Agriculture and Tourism in Poreč and the Faculty of Agriculture in Zagreb, virus-free elite Teran vines were selected and have already been planted in an ideal micro-location in the Motovun area.
(Photo: Merlo De Graia)
The success of this year’s Open Cellar Days not only highlights the growing interest in Istrian wines but also underscores the region’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in viticulture and promoting its unique wine heritage.
