Malvazija Istarska: One Variety, Five Faces of Damjanić Winery

Malvazija Istarska is not only the most important indigenous white variety of our peninsula; it is the queen of Istrian vineyards that has deservedly taken the leading position in the region over the past hundred years. At Damjanić Winery, Malvazija is the foundation of our identity—it occupies 60% of our vineyards and accounts for 60% of total cellar production.

However, for us, Malvazija is not just one label. Through different vinification approaches, from stainless steel to acacia and long maceration, we extract five completely different characters from this noble variety.

Our Five Interpretations of Malvazija

Each of our Malvazijas is created with the goal of showcasing a different potential of the grapes, depending on the harvest time and aging method.

1. Malvazija Istarska (Fresh)

This is our purest expression of the variety. Vinified exclusively in stainless steel tanks, this Malvazija preserves freshness, floral aromas, and the characteristic minerality of Istrian soil. It is ideal for lovers of crisp, elegant wines that best convey the primary aromas of the grapes.

2. Malvazija Akacija (from Acacia)

Istrian tradition has always been connected to acacia wood. This Malvazija ages for one year in acacia barrels, which gives it a specific texture and deepens the aromatic profile, while maintaining its distinctive varietal freshness.

3. Malvazija Justina (from Oak)

Justina is our tribute to our great-grandmother, as well as to oak wood. Through aging in oak barrique barrels, Justina becomes complex, powerful, and persistent. This is a wine that, just like its name, shows a character that is “just, as it should be.”

4. Malvazija Fenice (Orange)

Fenice represents the pinnacle of our quest for rarity and supernatural beauty. This wine undergoes 180 days of maceration, after which it continues aging in oak barrels. The result is an amber Malvazija with deep aromas, rich structure, and incredible longevity.

5. Malvazija Sincerus (Sweet)

Sincerus is the “sincere” finale of our work with Malvazija. Made from dried grapes, this dessert Malvazija concentrates sugars and acids in perfect balance. It is an honest and honorable reflection of the sun and time invested in each grape.

Philosophy in the Cellar

Regardless of which label you choose, each of our Malvazijas carries a common denominator: respect for tradition and precision in execution. From the fresh Malvazija to the complex Fenice, our goal is to demonstrate that Malvazija Istarska is one of the most versatile varieties in the world, capable of countless transformations.

Explore our cellar and find the Malvazija that best suits your taste.