Wines Unspecified Rossi - Malvazija - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Rossi’s 2022 Malvazija Cuvée hails from the rolling hills of Istria, a peninsula gracing Croatia’s Adriatic coast. This white wine, made from the Malvazija Istarska grape, offers a vibrant and expressive profile. The 2022 vintage benefited from generous sunshine and refreshing coastal breezes, encouraging full aromatic development while preserving fresh acidity. Expect a nose of white flowers and citrus peel interwoven with subtle herbal notes typical of the Malvazija grape. On the palate, Rossi’s interpretation shows crisp green apple and ripe pear, supported by a delicate minerality and a clean, dry finish—an expression of both careful vinification and respect for varietal character.

Istria has a storied wine heritage influenced by centuries of Venetian, Austrian and Slavic cultures. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate tempered by maritime winds and warm, sunny days that encourage gradual, even grape ripening. Soils here are distinctive: a tapestry of terra rossa (red clay rich in minerals) and stony limestone, which help to channel water and impart a certain finesse to the wines. Malvazija Istarska is the region's flagship white variety, renowned for its freshness, aromatic purity and versatility at the table.

Thanks to its lively acidity and aromatic layers, this Malvazija Cuvée is a perfect companion for a variety of dishes. Try it with local Adriatic seafood such as grilled sea bass or scampi, or with Istrian truffle pasta for a regional match. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean appetisers, fresh goat’s cheese, or simple salads featuring citrus or fresh herbs.

To fully appreciate its nuance, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally between 8-10°C. This range accentuates its floral and stone fruit aromas while maintaining its refreshing backbone—a delightful introduction to the character of Istrian whites.