The Istrian Peninsula has long been compared to Tuscany for its rolling vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns. At its heart lies Rovinj — a romantic seaside town where the Adriatic meets some of Croatia’s most distinctive wines.
Rovinj’s wineries combine traditional family operations with modern craftsmanship, offering visitors the chance to taste Malvasia Istarska, Teran, and other varietals that define the Istrian terroir. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a serious oenophile, the region’s wineries provide an unforgettable journey through taste, landscape, and tradition.
ROVINJ WINERIES
1. Vivoda Winery (Vina Vivoda)
Address: Cademia 5, Rovinj
Website: vina-vivoda.hr
Founded in 1952, Vina Vivoda is Rovinj’s oldest family-owned winery and a cornerstone of local viticulture. Operated by the third generation, Davor and Suzana Vivoda, the estate cultivates about 15 hectares on the rich red soils surrounding Rovinj.
Signature wines include Malvasia Istarska, Teran, Cabernet Sauvignon, and the elegant St. Euphemia Malvasia, aged 16 months in oak. Since the mid-1990s, Vivoda wines have appeared at domestic and international exhibitions, where they are always recognized for their quality, for which they receive awards, and since 2005, the Vivoda family's Malvasia has been the holder of the IQ label (Istrian Quality, since then this label has existed).
Wine Tasting at Vivoda:
Walk-in tastings are free according to most visitor reports.
Premium or extended tastings (including reserve wines) may have a fee.
Reservations are optional but recommended during the summer months.
The winery’s downtown location makes it one of the easiest to visit on foot.
Why Visit: Friendly atmosphere, authentic local experience, and excellent value wines.
2. Villa Dobravac Winery
Address: Karmelo ul. 1, 52210, Rovinj
Website: villa-dobravac.com/Wines
Located just a few minutes from Rovinj’s historic center, Villa Dobravac combines hospitality, agriculture, and winemaking in a beautiful family estate overlooking the countryside. The Dobravac family crafts refined wines such as Suita, Sonata, and Simfonija, each representing a blend of traditional Istrian grapes and modern vinification.
Wine Tasting at Villa Dobravac:
Tastings are paid experiences.
Options include 3-5 wines paired with artisanal olive oil and local cheese.
Advance booking is strongly advised, especially for groups.
On-site wine shop available for purchases and take-home tastings.
Why Visit: Professional tastings, excellent service, and one of Rovinj’s most scenic wine terraces.
3. Mare Wine & Olive Oil
Address: Stanjera 5A, Rovinj
Website: marewines.hr
Surrounded by olive trees, bathed in the golden sun, with a light breeze from the sea, their vine bears fruit that you can taste at the place of its growth, in the tasting room in the heart of the vineyards in Rovinj. The autochthonous varieties of Istrian Malvasia, Teran and Muscat reflect the uniqueness and richness of the Istrian terroir. Each glass of their wines reflects the blend of tradition and modern vinification techniques, making every tasting experience extraordinary. The family-owned estate also produces award-winning olive oil, often featured alongside the wines during tastings.
Wine Tasting at Mare Wines:
Guided tastings of 3 or 5 wines with olive oil and local snacks.
Private and small-group tastings available by reservation only.
No free tasting option, but the experience is personal and educational.
Why Visit: Ideal for those seeking a calm countryside setting and organic wines crafted with care.
4. Matošević Winery (Sveti Lovreč, 20 minutes from Rovinj)
Address: Krunčići 2, 52448 Sv. Lovreč, Croatia
Website: matosevic.com
Located near Rovinj, Matošević Winery is one of Istria’s most respected family producers, known for combining innovation with deep respect for tradition. Their elegant Malvasia, Teran, and signature blends such as Grimalda and Alba reflect the unique Istrian terroir. A visit offers an authentic tasting experience led by passionate winemakers in a beautiful countryside setting.
Wine Tasting at Matošević:
Structured tastings offered in the elegant tasting room.
Options include “Classic” or “Premium”.
By appointment only.
Why Visit: For a deep, professional tasting of benchmark Istrian wines.
OTHER NOTABLE WINERIES IN ISTRIA
While Rovinj’s wineries offer proximity and coastal charm, a short drive inland reveals many of Istria’s most acclaimed producers.
Kozlović Winery (Momjan)
Address: Vale 78, Momjan, 52460 Buje
Website: kozlovic.hr
A pioneer of Istrian winemaking, Kozlović combines state-of-the-art facilities with generations of family expertise. The panoramic terrace overlooks vineyards producing exceptional Malvasia, Teran, and Muškat Momjanski.
Tastings: Guided.
No free tastings; reservation required.
Why Visit: Cutting-edge design, professional staff, and award-winning wines
Kabola Winery (Momjan)
Address: Kanedolo 90, Momjan, 52460 Buje Hrvatska
Website: kabola.hr
Renowned for its amphora-aged Malvasia and Teran, Kabola is one of the few certified organic wineries in Croatia.
Tastings: Paid, including amphora and archive wines.
Free samples not available.
Why Visit: Unique amphora winemaking and breathtaking Adriatic views.
Franc Arman Winery (Višnjan area)
A respected family producer known for consistency and quality. Their Malvasia and Teran offer authentic expressions of central Istria.
Tastings: Guided by appointment.
Occasionally offers complimentary small samples for walk-ins.
Why Visit: Warm hospitality and excellent value wines.
Meneghetti Winery (Bale)
Address: Stancija Meneghetti 1, 52211, Bale
Website: meneghetti.hr
Part of the luxurious Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Resort, this estate produces premium wines that pair beautifully with fine dining.
Tastings: Exclusive and curated.
No free tastings, but full wine-and-food pairing experiences available.
Why Visit: For a luxurious and complete wine-gastronomy experience.
Benvenuti Winery (Kaldir near Motovun)
Address: Kaldir 7, 52424 Motovun
Website: benvenutivina.com
Perched above Motovun, Benvenuti produces elegant Malvasia, Teran, and sweet Muscat wines grown on white limestone soil.
Tastings: Paid, reservation required.
No free tasting option.
Why Visit: For refined wines and stunning inland views.
Free and Affordable Tasting Opportunities
Free tastings in Istria are uncommon but not unheard of. Visitors can find complimentary samples at certain small wineries and during regional wine events.
Vivoda Winery (Rovinj): Offers free casual tastings of selected wines.
Vinistra Wine Day (late May): Nearly 50 wineries open their cellars with free or low-cost tastings.
Local wine bars in Rovinj: Small samples often offered when browsing for purchase.
Tips for Planning Your Istrian Wine Tour
Book in advance – especially in high season (June–September).
Expect tasting fees – standard rates range from €10 to €30 per person.
Ask about local food pairings – many wineries serve cheese, truffles, or olive oil.
Travel smart – rent a car or arrange private transport if you plan multiple tastings.
Visit in spring or autumn – quieter seasons, more personalized experiences.
From the historic cellars of Vivoda to the polished elegance of Villa Dobravac and the organic craftsmanship of Mare Wines, Rovinj offers an exceptional introduction to Istrian winemaking. Beyond the coast, the broader region—from Kozlović to Kabola and Benvenuti—reveals a tapestry of tradition, innovation, and passion for the vine.
Whether you seek a free local tasting or a luxury wine-and-dine experience, Istria delivers a journey that satisfies every palate and deepens every traveler’s connection to Croatia’s evolving wine culture.