Wines Porec Festigia - Castello - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Festigia’s Cuvée Castello 2022 from the Porec appellation in Istria, Croatia, is a compelling red wine, celebrated for its elegant composition and modern style. While the precise blend of grape varieties is not specified, Istrian reds typically feature varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and indigenous grapes like Teran. The 2022 vintage benefits from a relatively warm and dry growing season, allowing for optimal ripeness and aromatic complexity. Vinification often focuses on gentle extraction to preserve fruit purity, freshness, and supple tannins, resulting in a wine that balances richness with approachability.

Istria, a historical peninsula on the Adriatic coast, boasts a unique terroir composed of red clay (known locally as terra rossa) and limestone soils. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with cooling breezes from the sea moderating the heat and contributing to excellent acidity in the wines. Viticulture has deep ancient roots here, with Greek, Roman and Venetian influences shaping the local style and traditions. In recent decades, Istrian wineries like Festigia have garnered international attention for the quality and typicity of their reds and whites.

For food pairing, Cuvée Castello’s medium to full-bodied profile, ripe red fruit notes and fine tannins make it an excellent companion to a range of savoury dishes. Traditional Istrian cuisine features hearty fare: consider pairing this wine with boskarin (Istrian ox) stew, roasted lamb with Mediterranean herbs, or wild mushroom risotto. Its structure also complements grilled meats, aged cheeses like paški sir, and even tomato-based pastas with a touch of spice.

To fully appreciate its bouquet and vibrant palate, serve Festigia Cuvée Castello 2022 at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes prior to serving will enhance its aromatics and smooth out the tannins, revealing the wine’s balance and charm. This is a wine to savour with good food and good company.