Wines Unspecified Benvenuti - Teran Livio - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The Benvenuti Cuvée Teran Livio 2019 is an expressive red wine hailing from the picturesque region of Istria, Croatia. As its name suggests, it is crafted primarily from the indigenous Teran grape, a varietal renowned for producing robust, vibrant reds with marked acidity and a distinctive mineral backbone. The 2019 vintage, benefiting from a moderate growing season, offers a wine of great balance and depth. Vinification typically favours stainless steel to preserve Teran’s lively fruit character, though some producers may also incorporate brief ageing in neutral oak to round out the palate without overwhelming the grape’s natural brightness. Expect an aromatic profile redolent of sour cherry, wild berries, violets, and an earthy, spicy undertone typical of the Istrian terroir.

Istria is a captivating peninsula situated in the north-western part of Croatia, bathed by the Adriatic Sea, and marked by a patchwork of rolling hills, red clay soils rich in iron, and limestone outcrops. The region enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate with warm days and cooling sea breezes, which help to preserve freshness and clarity in the wines. Viticulture in Istria dates back millennia to ancient Greek and Roman times, and today, the region is acclaimed for its revival of indigenous grapes like Teran, Malvazija, and Refosco.

This wine shines when paired with hearty, flavourful cuisine that can stand up to its vibrant structure and characteristic acidity. Traditional Istrian fare such as wild boar stew, grilled sausages, or pasta with aged local cheese and truffles is ideal. It also complements rustic Mediterranean dishes like tomato-based ragùs, lamb with rosemary, or aubergine parmigiana.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Benvenuti Cuvée Teran Livio 2019 at around 16–18°C. If possible, decant for thirty minutes to allow the wine’s aromas to fully unfold. Enjoy it now for its youthful vigour, or cellar for a few more years to gain further complexity.