Vinalia x Coronica, Malvazija Istarska

Among the most revered winegrowers in Croatia, Moreno Coronica established his winery in 1992, shortly after Croatian independence. The estate, however, dates to the early 20th century, founded by Moreno’s grandfather, Giovanni Coronica, when Istria was a part of Italy. Situated a mere 2.5 kilometers from the Adriatic, Coronica’s vineyards sit atop rich terra rossa soils, which Moreno finds ideal for winegrowing. Moreno is a master of Malvazija Istarska, and 75% of his property is dedicated to the variety.

The small Istrian Peninsula juts out like a shark tooth to form the northeastern edge of the Adriatic Sea. The vast majority of Istria belongs to Croatia, though small slivers are also parsed out to Slovenia and Italy’s Friuli. Defined by a dramatic sweep of rolling hills, often decorated atop by medieval towns, Istria is sunny, breathtaking, and ideal for viticulture. Famous for its white Malvazija Istarska, Istria also houses its indigenous red, Teran.

Malvasia is a name given to a large group of disparate grapes, and Malvazija Istarska is Istria’s entry. Croatia’s second most planted grape variety, Malvazija Istarska is highly adaptable to winemaking practices. While it can yield crisp, refreshing, slightly honeyed and vegetal white wines, it also shows a high affinity for oak maturation. Some winegrowers also allow for extended skin contact to create beautiful orange wines from Malvazija Istarska.