Benvenuti Winery in Kaldir

Closed. Opens on today 10:00.

Benvenuti Winery in Kaldir ages two Malvasias in different ways. Its vineyards lie on white soil, and the guided cellar tour includes a wine tasting.

Malvasia, Teran and Muscat from the Kaldir area

The two Malvasias show two different approaches to the same grape variety. Malvazija Istarska matures on its fine lees for six months in a stainless steel tank. Malvazija Livio spends a year in a large, previously used oak cask, followed by a further year in bottle. Caldierosso combines Teran, Merlot, Nebbiolo and Tempranillo, while Teran Livio is a varietal wine from selected vineyards and is made for extended ageing. Muškat San Salvatore is made from late-harvest grapes that are left to dry naturally for three months before vinification.

Vineyards on white soil

The family's first vineyard was planted in 1946, and the first wines carrying the Benvenuti label were produced in 2003. The vineyards occupy slopes around Kaldir and Motovun; San Salvatore, the highest site, reaches 400 metres above sea level. The carbonate soil over flysch, known locally as white soil, ranges in texture from loam to heavy clay. Wines intended for longer ageing mature in large, repeatedly used oak casks without the pronounced aromatic influence of new oak.

Cellar tours and tastings

A guided cellar tour includes a tasting of five or six wines and small bites made from local produce. A tour with tasting lasts 70 to 90 minutes, is conducted in Croatian or English and is not private. Tours start at 13:00 and 16:00. At least two guests are required, and the tasting room seats 18. Parking is available.

Distance from Bale: 46 minutes driving (47 km)

Address: Kaldir 7, 52424 Motovun, Istria, Croatia

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