Continuing our collaboration with Vinistra and the Istria Tourist Board, we’re excited to share news about Istria’s achievements in 2024, culminating in their debut at the prestigious Decanter Fine Wine Encounter in London.
A Grand Debut at Decanter Fine Wine Encounter
On 16 November, Vinistra—representing over 120 vinegrowers and winemakers from Istria and Kvarner—proudly showcased Istria’s finest wines at the Landmark Hotel in London. Known for its signature grape varieties, Malvasia Istriana and Teran, Istria’s wines impressed a select audience of connoisseurs, importers, and distributors.
In collaboration with the Istria Tourist Board, Vinistra presented 16 handpicked wines, marking an important milestone for the region on the global wine map.
Vinistra’s Commitment to Excellence
Founded in 1994, Vinistra celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024 with a series of key events showcasing Istria’s rich winemaking heritage:
• En Premier Tasting (February): Highlighting young wines crafted from Istrian Malvasia.
• Vinistra Wine Fair (May): The region’s flagship event, attracting wine lovers and professionals from around the world.
• Concours Mondial de Bruxelles: Hosting this prestigious competition cemented Istria’s international reputation.
• Decanter World Wine Awards Celebration: Croatian winemakers earned 364 medals in 2024, showcasing their exceptional quality and diversity.
Vinistra’s dedication to advancing winemaking doesn’t stop there. At the end of November, the association will lead its winemakers on a study trip to Bordeaux, the heart of global winemaking, to explore innovative techniques and technologies; and presenting Istrian vines at the Vinitech Sifel fair in Bordeaux. This initiative reflects Vinistra’s commitment to continuous improvement and fostering excellence in Istrian wines.
Vinistra Wine Fair 2025: The Highlight of the Year
Looking ahead, all eyes are on the Vinistra Wine Fair 2025, scheduled for 9–11 May. As the region’s most important wine event, it promises to celebrate Istria’s winemaking culture with tastings, workshops, and the opportunity to meet the winemakers behind these exceptional wines.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Istria’s unique flavours, landscapes, and hospitality, making the fair a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and travellers alike.
Discovering Istria Beyond the Wines
Istria isn’t just about wine—it’s a region of breathtaking coastal towns, truffle-filled cuisine, and unparalleled hospitality. Pair these attractions with world-class wines, and you have an unforgettable travel experience.
For inspiration, check out our previous blog post on a wine tour of Istria in June, where we explored hidden gems and indulged in the region’s finest offerings. After such a remarkable year, we’re eagerly planning our visit to Vinistra Wine Fair 2025 to discover even more of Istria’s magic.
Save the Date
With a successful 2024 behind us, 2025 promises even more excitement. Mark your calendars for the Vinistra Wine Fair 2025 from 9–11 May and join us in celebrating the best of Istrian wines.
Raise a glass to Istria and discover the magic of this extraordinary region!
This post is sponsored by Vinistra and the Istria Tourist Board.