Vinistra at Wine Paris for first time as Istria defends Croatian colours

(Photo: Vinistra)

Vinistra has once again confirmed its status as Croatia’s leading wine association, making a landmark debut at Wine Paris, one of the world’s most prestigious wine exhibitions, held from 9 to 11 February in the French capital.

As the only Croatian association representing the nation at the event, Vinistra proudly defended Croatia’s colours among the globe’s most renowned wine regions.

Competing alongside leading international producers, Istria was presented as one of the Mediterranean’s most dynamic and exciting wine stories.

Thirteen Istrian Wineries in the Spotlight

At Vinistra’s stand in Hall 4, thirteen Istrian wineries showcased their wines to an audience of importers, sommeliers and wine critics. Participating producers included Fakin, Medea, Kozlović, Clai, Benvenuti, Meneghetti, Matošević, Rossi, Deklić, Pervino, Festigia, Damjanić and Kabola.

(Photo: Vinistra)

Over three days, their wines attracted significant interest, with professionals recognising their authenticity, pronounced terroir expression and modern approach to production.

Ivan Marić, Director of Vinistra, said the response exceeded expectations.

“The interest in our wines was exceptionally strong, which is particularly encouraging. We came to this fair with a clear objective, to proudly present our two indigenous varieties, Malvasia Istriana and Teran. Although Istrian winemakers also produce excellent wines from well-known international varieties, our true strength lies in our authentic grapes. These wines have long been recognised on the global stage and continue to win prestigious international awards.”

Malvasia and Teran Take Centre Stage

A key focus of the presentation was Malvasia Istriana, Istria’s flagship white grape, alongside Teran, the region’s distinctive red variety.

Two masterclasses drew considerable attention from international visitors. “Don’t Forget the Z – The Many Faces of Malvasia Istriana” was led by renowned wine expert and Decanter editor Caroline Gilby, who highlighted why Malvasia deserves greater global recognition.

(Photo: Philippe Labeguerie)

The second masterclass, “Discover Istria – A Wine Exploration of the Peninsula”, was hosted by Vinistra President Luka Rossi and Director Ivan Marić together with Decanter editor Claire Cocks. The session offered an in-depth overview of Istria’s diverse wine landscape and its remarkable progress over the past three decades.

Luka Rossi emphasised the significance of the event:

“Participating at Wine Paris was an exceptional opportunity to demonstrate how far Istria has progressed as a wine region in just thirty years. We appeared united, strong and well organised, and market reactions confirmed that our wines belong among the best. Istria is no longer a hidden gem, but a recognised European wine region with a clear identity and high standards of quality.”

(Photo: Philippe Labeguerie)

A Global Stage for Croatian Wine

Wine Paris brings together more than 6,500 exhibitors from 170 countries and attracts over 63,000 visitors. The event hosts more than 240 workshops and nearly 26,000 business meetings, underlining its global significance within the wine and spirits industry.

The fair’s prestige was further highlighted by the attendance of French President Emmanuel Macron. Among exhibitors was also international pop star Kylie Minogue, who presented her own wine line.

(Photo: Sébastien D’halloy)

For Vinistra and the Istrian winemakers, their Paris debut marks an important milestone.

With authentic indigenous varieties, growing international recognition and a strong collective presence, Istria continues to cement its position as one of Europe’s most compelling wine regions, and a proud ambassador for Croatian excellence on the world stage.