May 29, 2021 - Sunday is Open Wine Cellars Day in Istria, the day when over 50 wineries and distilleries open their doors with free tastings, often food, and even live music.
Last year, like many events, it didn't happen, but this year, as we slowly get back to normal, it is back on again. Istria's response to COVID has been exemplary and the county has worked hard to preserve its tourist industry. This is back on and a postponed open-air VINISTRA is on next month. Everything is being organised very carefully.
This year, wineries from Degrassi in the North West to Romeo in the North East and down to Benazic in Pula are all offering their wares. Famous wineries like Benvenuti, Fakin, Damjanic, Gerzinic, Matosevic, Pilato, and Koquelicut are all included. The little village of Kaldir boasts three wineries that are open – Benvenuti, Valenta, and Bertosa. Note that a few who have participated in previous years are not on the list this year. Tomaz, normally very busy and Cattunar are off this year, as is Rossi, although Pino Rossi across the road is open and Kozlevich doesn't usually participate anyway. Distilleries like Aura and Kapeljica are participating this year, as Istria is producing some excellent eaux de vie.
Please note that, unlike previous years, when people could just turn up, Istria is still taking its COVID responsibilities seriously and you will need to book a time, with the number in your party, with each place, enabling them to limit numbers to safe levels.
The full list, with contact details for everywhere, is at https://www.istra.hr/en/events/21695
Zivoli!
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