Wines Unspecified Benvenuti - Santa Elisabetta - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The Benvenuti Santa Elisabetta 2019 is a remarkable expression of Istrian red wine, crafted by the well-regarded Benvenuti estate in Croatia. This cuvée, though the precise blend is not detailed, is typically built around the native Teran grape, sometimes complemented by varieties like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, all of which thrive on the unique white limestone soils of inland Istria. 2019 was a vintage marked by balanced ripening and moderate yields, which allowed the fruit to reach excellent maturity while retaining freshness. The winemaking at Benvenuti places strong emphasis on terroir expression: grapes are harvested by hand, sorted meticulously, and the wine sees careful aging—often in a mix of large and small oak barrels—ensuring a rich, layered palate while allowing the energy and vitality of the fruit to shine.

Istria, in north-western Croatia, enjoys a Mediterranean climate tempered by the proximity of the Adriatic Sea, with warm days and cool nights fostering grapes of great aromatic intensity and finesse. The region is well known for its red “terra rossa” soils over limestone and for a winemaking tradition that goes back millennia, with the Benvenuti family itself standing out as a beacon of the new wave of quality Istrian producers.

Pairing this elegant, aromatic red is a true pleasure. Its vibrant acidity and refined tannins will complement traditional Istrian fare such as slow-braised beef in Teran wine, wild mushroom risotto, or smoked pork loin with roasted herbs. More generally, it is a superb match for aged hard cheeses, lamb dishes, or Mediterranean vegetable gratins.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly cooler than room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for an hour will help the complex bouquet of dark berries, black pepper, and subtle oak unfold. This wine is wonderful to enjoy now, but will develop further complexity with a few more years of cellaring.