Red wines
Teran (Refosk)
Teran, an Istrian classic, is a wine that was well known even with the Romans. It is characteristic for its acidity and its intensive red, almost black colour. Teran’s bouquet reminds of raspberries. The wine contains the iron and pairs excellent with meat (such as game), Istrian prosciutto and local cheese varieties, as well as truffles. It should be served at 16–18 °C.
Merlot
This wine variety originates from the French region of Bordeaux, and is commonly known as one of the highest quality red varieties. The cultivation of this variety in Istria started in the early 1970s. Merlot, with its ruby-red colour, has a warm aroma, a well-balanced bouquet, and can be recommended to accompany almost all types of dishes. Optimum temperature for Merlot is between 18 and 20 °C.
Muscat Rose of Poreč
Muscat Rose of Poreč has been produced for over 100 years as a traditional dessert wine. It contains around 16% of alcohol and 8% of sugar residue. Its aroma is characterised by a light and particularly pleasant rose fragrance. It is served with sweet dishes or desserts, cooled down to 16–18 °C.
Cabernet Sauvignon
This wine variety is one of the most famous and the most widespread varieties in the world. The king of red wines, Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its full, well-balanced taste and aroma of forest fruits. It makes an ideal wine to accompany meat and pasta dishes. The serving temperature should be 18–20 °C.
Cabernet Franc
Called the younger brother of Cabernet Sauvignon for quite some time, it also originates from France. This wine has a higher acidity content, as well as fine tannins. It has a soft, delicate and full aroma, and should be cooled down to 18–20 °C, and served with all types of meat and pasta.
Borgonja
For a long time it was considered that this grape variety originates from France, but recent research shows that this is a traditional grape variety of Istria which can produce wines similar to Beaujolais. Known in Istria since the 18th century, Borgonja is of a medium-intensive red colour and a harmonious aroma. It contains a little less alcohol than other similar wines. This wine should be served at the temperature of 18–20 °C, and paired with all types of meat dishes.