A chance to try the best young Croatian malvazija wines

by croatiaweek
January 16, 2025
in Food & Wine

(Photo: Merlo De Graia)

Poreč, 16 January 2025 – One of Zagreb’s most captivating wine events, the En Primeur of young Malvazija wines, is fast approaching.

The 13th edition of this event, organised by Vinistra, the association of Istrian winegrowers and winemakers, will take place on 10 February at Hotel Esplanade Zagreb – a favourite destination for lovers of fine living.

Traditionally held just before Valentine’s Day, around 70 Istrian winemakers will gather in the capital for a single day to officially present their 2024 vintage Malvazija wines.

These wines, many of which are still maturing in barrels, will be showcased to business partners, distributors, restaurateurs, chefs, wine critics, and the wider public.

(Photo: Merlo De Graia)

As in previous years, a number of colleagues from Kvarner will join the Istrian winemakers, presenting their young Žlahtina wines.

“We are delighted to host a new edition of En Primeur. Last year’s record-breaking event allowed visitors to taste more than 60 Malvazija and Žlahtina wines. Although the past year presented challenges – with average yields down by 30%, rising production costs, and a continuing shortage of labour – these factors will not significantly impact the price of the new vintage. We’re thrilled that interest in Malvazija continues to grow. Guests will have the opportunity to experience the character of the new vintage, while the masterclass will feature the most representative Malvazija samples from specific subregions of Istria. The 2024 Malvazija wines will officially be released in April,” said Luka Rossi, President of Vinistra.

(Photo: Merlo De Graia)

For context, the Vinistra association organised the first tasting of young Malvazija wines in 2012, inspired by similar events in France, enriching the Croatian wine scene.

(Photo: Merlo De Graia)

The En Primeur concept is well known among wine enthusiasts. The tasting is divided into two sessions: from 1 pm to 4 pm, it is reserved for wine professionals, while from 4 pm to 7 pm, it is open to the general public.