Istrian Wines and Gianfranco Kozlovic
In the mid-1990s, young Istrian politicians proclaimed that, far from having to rely solely on coastal tourism, the Istrian economy could thrive on the production of wine and olives, and the caches of truffles in Istrian forests. Today, in this relatively small region that makes up the northern coastline of Croatia, there are more than 80 active wineries. The private wine makers of Istria have made local grape varieties a specialty. Drawing on tradition and the grapes’ suitability for the region, they are able to produce high-quality wines of unique appeal. The most important Istrian grape is the white Malvasia, but there is also a Muscat that yields magnificent sweet wines, and the red Teran, a subvariety of Refosco that produces a “wild,” high-acidity wine that is often blended with Merlot and Cabernet. Gianfranco Kozlovic is the largest private producer of Malvasia in Istria, and a vocal crusader for quality. His vineyards dot the hillsides of northern Istria, where his modern winery is located.

Kozlovic Malvasia
This lemon-colored dry wine offers hay, white peach, apple and almond on the nose. It is medium-bodied, unoaked, with fresh acidity and slight mineral and herb on the palate. Serve chilled with summer seafood.