Castle Belaj: Two Wineries on One Historic Estate

Two distinct wineries operate on the historic Castle Belaj estate. Dvorac Belaj makes wine from the vineyard surrounding the castle, while the Ivić family’s Podrum Belaj works with grapes from Boljunsko polje.

Two wineries and two sources of grapes

The Belay family established Dvorac Belaj winery in 2011. Its grapes come from the historic vineyard beside the castle, where some vines date from the 1960s. In 2016, winemaking and ageing were brought back into the estate’s cellars.

The Ivić family founded Podrum Belaj in 1998, continuing a family winegrowing history that reaches back to the early 20th century. Its vineyards are in Boljunsko polje. The two names do not refer to separate ranges from one producer: these are independent wineries whose wines can be tasted at the same estate.

Which wines should you choose for a tasting?

To understand the difference between the two wineries, ask to compare one Malvasia from each range. From Dvorac Belaj, it is then useful to set the fresh Malvasia beside the aged Malvazija Selection and, depending on the vintages available, continue with Chardonnay, white blends, Merlot or Pinot Noir. Podrum Belaj also makes Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon alongside Malvasia.

Dvorac Belaj’s 2019 Malvazija Selection received 90 points and gold at the 2023 World of Malvasias competition. The 2016 vintage of the same wine won silver with 90 points at the 2020 Decanter World Wine Awards, while the 2018 Belaj Blend received bronze with 87 points. These results apply to the stated vintages, so ask which wines are currently available when booking.

Tastings, tours and reservations

An arranged tasting can cover up to eight wines, guidance from a sommelier, a tour of the vineyard and/or castle, and a platter of local produce. In your enquiry, include your preferred date and time, the number of visitors, the required language, whether you would like a tour and any dietary restrictions.

The estate is open on Sundays from 12:00 to 20:00 and receives visitors at other times by prior arrangement. The address is Belaj 20A, 52402 Cerovlje. Wait for confirmation of the time and programme before setting out.

Distance from Bale: 42 minutes driving (51.4 km)

Address: Belaj 20A, 52402 Cerovlje, Istria, Croatia

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