Overview
Croatia's most unique white grape, found almost exclusively on Istria's red terra rossa soils. Fresh Malvazija has lemon, almond and a distinctive floral note. Skin-contact (orange/amber) Malvazija — macerated on skins for weeks — produces structured, tannic whites of extraordinary complexity that put Istria on the natural wine world's map. Kozlović, Clai and Roxanich are the definitive producers.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Medium copper-orange
- Nose
- Lemon, Peach, Almond, Almond and Floral.
- Palate
- Croatia's treasure — lemon-almond Malvazija; or amber-skinned, profound and tannic. Generally light-bodied, crisp acidity, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Light2/5
Tannins Silky1/5
Acidity Crisp4/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol Medium3/5
Grapes
Malvazija IstarskaTeranRefošk
Aromas And Notes
LemonPeachAlmondApricotCitrus blossomAlmondFloralMineralHerbsHoneyBeeswaxDried flowers
Terroir
Mediterranean — Adriatic influence, warm summers, mild winters. Terra rossa clay soils.
Terra rossa (red clay-limestone)Flysch (sandstone-marl)Limestone
Food Pairings
Istrian trufflesGrilled sea bassProsciutto d'IstriaFritule (doughnuts)Fuži pasta
Notable Producers
- Kozlović, founded 1904 - Malvazija Santa Lucia
- Clai Bijele Zemlje, founded 2003 - Sveti Jakov Orange Malvazija
- Roxanich, founded 2001 - Ines u Bijelom Malvazija