Olives

Olive oil, the symbol of the Mediterranean, has always been more than just a food. The production of olive oil in Istria goes back many thousands of years. If you are on vacation in Istria, it is worth driving along the olive roads and learning more about olive oil and olive growers, as well as their olive cellars with restaurants. Istria is one of the best olive regions; the climate there is perfect for olive trees. In addition to the larger producers, there are also numerous small olive oil farmers who offer excellent oils. Mostly the wine growers also produce their own olive oil; it is really worth trying everywhere. Olive oil is tasted much like wine: Pour some oil into a small glass, inhale the aroma, and sip the glass a little. Now you can taste the differences like sweet, bitter, or peppery and find out your favorite oil.

Wine and olive oil tastings are very rewarding around Vizinada and Motovun. The most famous Istrian wine varieties – white Malvasia and red Teran – are grown here. The nearest winery, our house and regular supplier, is Bruno Ferenac in Ferenci. There you can get a nice Malvasia and a good Merlot. Also highly recommended are the wineries Benvenuti Vina (Kaldir), Vina Tomaz (Motovun), Vina Poletti (Markovac/Kastellir) and, since last year, our new favourite: the very friendly family business Vina Radovan in Radovani.