Istria: Showcasing the best of Croatia

Birds-eye view of a drinks reception on the coast at sunset, with fairy lights above groups of people socialising — Celebrations after the presentation of the DWWA medal winners.

(Image credit: Merlo de Graia / Vinistra)

Published 2 September 2026 In Features

What better time to visit Istria than summer? While the peninsula offers year-round pleasure, the hot days and seemingly endless hours of sunlight provide the perfect setting to explore everything the region has to offer.

It was here that Vinistra hosted the Decanter Winners Showcase event for the third time this July, bringing together international visitors and producers from Istria, as well as the rest of Croatia and neighbouring countries.

Rewarding excellence

The presentation of the medal winners from this year’s Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA), by Co-Chair Beth Willard, took place on 2 July at the Adriatic Istria Resort by Minor Hotels in Savudrija. Out of 412 medals awarded to Croatia, Istrian producers received an impressive 103, including two Platinum and 13 Gold medals.

Over 40 wineries attended the event, which was open to wine professionals and, for the first time, consumers. Despite the hot temperatures, the producers and their wines stayed cool by the shores of the Adriatic and its refreshing sea breeze. As the sun gradually set over the tasting, a few dolphins were even spotted enjoying the clear blue waters.

Beth Willard with Bruno Ferenac, on stage. He is holding a big white certificate, they're both smiling — Host Beth Willard with Platinum medal-winning producer Bruno Ferenac.

Beyond the awards

Vinistra’s showcase offered far more than a tasting of the region’s award-winning wines. A press study trip included winery visits, which explored the diverse terroir and wine styles emerging from the Istrian peninsula. These revealed an enviable sense of community among producers keen to promote a strong local identity.

The program extended beyond the vineyards to take in some of Istria’s rich culinary traditions and nascent fine dining scene. Earlier in the week the Michelin Guide award ceremony for Croatia took place at the Morosini-Grimani Castle in Svetvinčenat in the south of Istria. It proved an imposing backdrop illuminated by an impressive fireworks display and an impromptu electrical storm that finally broke the intense summer heat.

Between meals celebrating the peninsula’s exceptional fish, pasta, truffles and refreshing wines made from Malvazija Istarska, there was even time to take in a round of golf at Croatia’s only PGA-accredited course, cementing the region’s credentials as one of the Adriatic’s most desirable food, wine and lifestyle destinations.

A group of around 40 people standing in front of the sea looking at the camera. Most of the people are holding white certificates in front of them. — Many of the winning producers and members of the press.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: Upcoming Association Vinistra events

6–7 November 2026: Decanter Fine Wine Encounter – Featuring wines from Istria – The Landmark Hotel, London
8 February 2027: En Primeur – Launch of the new vintage of Malvazija Istarska – Hotel Esplanade, Zagreb
15–17 February 2027: Wine Paris – Featuring wines from Istria – Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles, Paris
5–9 April 2027: World of Malvasia competition and Vinistra Wine & Spirits Awards – Poreč, Istria
7–9 May 2027: Vinistra wine fair – International wine and winemaking fair – Poreč, Istria
July 2027: Decanter Winners Showcase by Vinistra – Istria