The summer season in Istria, the heart of the Mediterranean, this year gets a new, shining star in its event sky. Just today, August 12, the premiere edition of the Summer Wine Park Festival opens its doors, an event that promises to become an indispensable meeting place for all lovers of fine wines, authentic Istrian delicacies, and a relaxed summer atmosphere. For three days, until August 14, one of the most picturesque parts of the city, Olga Ban Park, will turn into an epicenter of hedonism, combining the best that Poreč has to offer. The organizing trio, composed of the Poreč Tourist Board, the City of Poreč-Parenzo, and the diligent Agro-Poreč Association, have joined forces to create an event that not only enriches the tourist offer but also celebrates the rich winemaking tradition of the Poreč region.

Situated in a unique location, right next to the coast and the city promenade, with a view of the blue Adriatic, Olga Ban Park provides the perfect backdrop for this wine story. Its position, right next to the largest city parking lot, makes it easily accessible to all visitors who want to immerse themselves in the world of Istrian flavors. Every day, from 6 PM until midnight, visitors will be able to enjoy the idyllic ambiance under the canopies of centuries-old trees. The musical background that will further spice up the atmosphere and accompany the sunsets will be provided by DJ Mr. G, whose rhythms will create the perfect soundtrack for unforgettable summer evenings.

A treasury of Poreč winemakers in one place

The core of the festival is an impressive selection of wines presented by local winemakers, members of the Agro-Poreč Association. This is an extraordinary opportunity to taste, in one place, the drops that tell the story of the Istrian land, sun, and the passion of the winemakers. Seven wineries will proudly present their products, each with its unique signature. Visitors will be able to discover the wines of the Brčić family from the vicinity of Nova Vas, known for a wide range of varieties that include the indigenous Malvasia Istriana and Teran, but also international varieties such as Chardonnay and Merlot. There are also Kadum Wines, a boutique winery from the village of Buići, whose family tradition dates back to the distant year of 1882, and today they cultivate varieties such as Malvasia, Refošk, and Cabernet Sauvignon on six hectares of organic vineyards.

Wine lovers will not miss the opportunity to taste the labels of Damjanić Vina, whose history dates back to the 18th century, and whose quality was confirmed back in 1928 by winning the Grand Prix in Paris. Today, they are known for elegant and mineral wines with an emphasis on Malvasia Istriana that carries the DNA of their house. Vina Ritoša, another famous name in Poreč winemaking, will also present their passion poured into bottles. The offer is also enriched by Terzolo Vina from Nova Vas, whose young winemaker Roberto Tercolo creates a modern, funky style Malvasia, ideal for a younger audience, full of aromas of exotic fruit and white flowers. The festival will also feature Vina DeValentinis and Mušković Vina, known for their light and refreshing Borgonja, a variety that few in Istria bottle as a standalone wine, and which is perfect for summer gatherings with lighter dishes. Each of these wineries brings a part of its philosophy, terroir, and family heritage, providing visitors with a unique insight into the wine richness offered by Poreč and its surroundings.

A fusion of tradition and modern flavors

To make the offer even more diverse and attractive, the organizers have ensured that the festival is not dedicated exclusively to the wines of local family farms. Alongside the members of the Agro-Poreč association, some of the most famous brands of Istria will also be presented to the visitors. One of them is Festigia, the premium wine line of the Agrolaguna company, which is synonymous with quality and consistency. Their Malvasia Istriana and Merlot Festigia have been recognized on the market for years as wines that provide exceptional value and represent the essence of the Istrian wine region. These wines, created in the vast vineyards around Poreč, are a perfect example of how modern technology can be combined with tradition to produce top-quality products.

For those who prefer stronger flavors or are looking for the perfect summer cocktail, there is the company Martesi. This small distillery from Poreč, founded in 2012, specializes in the production of indigenous spirits and original cocktails. Their presence at the festival brings a touch of urban culture and mixology, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the world of craft distillates and refresh themselves with creative cocktails made from local ingredients. This combination of traditional winemakers and modern brands like Festigia and Martesi creates a dynamic and exciting offer that will satisfy even the most demanding palates.

Gourmet corner with a mark of excellence

Wine and music do not go without good food, and the Summer Wine Park Festival takes this very seriously. The gastronomic part of the story is entrusted to a stand with the prestigious IstrianQuality (IQ) label. The IQ label, or Istrian Quality, guarantees that these are products of above-average quality, produced in the Istria region according to strictly defined rules, thereby preserving authenticity and tradition. This project, initiated by the Vinistra association and the Istrian Development Agency, has become a symbol of excellence, especially for wines like Istrian Malvasia and Teran.

At the IQ stand, the company Jurikta from Pazin, which is engaged in mixed agriculture, will present a true treasury of Istrian delicacies. Visitors will be able to enjoy a carefully selected range of products that goes beyond just wine. The offer will include top-quality brandies, award-winning olive oils, traditional Istrian sausages, various types of cheeses from local producers, and numerous other delicacies that perfectly complement the wine aromas. This gourmet corner provides an opportunity to experience the entire eno-gastronomic richness of the peninsula in one place, rounding off the festival experience into a complete story of the tastes and smells of Istria. This is another reason to visit Poreč this August and surrender to the charms it offers.

The Summer Wine Park Festival is thus profiling itself as a new, attractive event that uniquely combines enology, gastronomy, music, and a beautiful natural ambiance. For three days, from August 12 to 14, Olga Ban Park becomes an unmissable point on the map of summer events, a place where life and the richness of the fruits of the Istrian land are celebrated. This event is a perfect invitation to all who want to experience an authentic atmosphere and discover why the wines and gastronomy of Poreč are appreciated worldwide.