Wines Unspecified Benvenuti - Teran Livio - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Benvenuti Cuvée Teran Livio 2021 is a fascinating red wine from the hilly heart of Istria, Croatia. Crafted exclusively from the indigenous Teran grape, this 2021 vintage expresses the variety’s signature vibrancy and depth. The Teran grape is famed for its deep purple colour, lively acidity, and moderate tannins, which here translate to a wine with an expressive aromatic profile—think wild cherry, blackberry, subtle forest floor, and a touch of spice. While exact vinification details are not specified, Benvenuti is known for a thoughtful approach that respects the grape’s freshness and character, often combining stainless steel and careful oak maturation to balance fruit expression and structure.

Istria, where this wine is born, boasts a unique terroir and a winemaking heritage stretching back millennia. Located in Croatia’s north-west, the region benefits from a temperate Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool nights which allow grapes to ripen slowly and retain vibrancy. The red, iron-rich soils of Istria play a crucial role as well, lending the wines energy and a characteristic minerality. Rich historical influences from Venetian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic cultures have shaped not just Istrian cuisine but its winery culture too, resulting in a distinctive regional style that’s increasingly celebrated.

This vibrant Teran pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Its natural acidity and berry notes make it a superb match for slow-cooked Istrian beef goulash, roasted pork with Mediterranean herbs, or grilled game meats. For a regional touch, try it alongside fuži—traditional Istrian pasta—with truffle sauce, or a plate of aged sheep’s cheese and olives. Its freshness also stands up well to tomato-based dishes, making it an excellent companion for hearty ragù or stuffed peppers.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Teran at 16-18°C. Allowing the wine to breathe for a short while before tasting enhances its aromatic complexity and rounds out the tannins, ensuring a balanced and rewarding experience.