Introduction:
The 2023 Rodica “Malvasia” from Istria, Slovenia is a beautifully textured, aromatic skin-contact white made from indigenous Malvazija Istriana. Complex and layered with a silky mouthfeel, this orange wine highlights regional identity and natural winemaking techniques.

Terrior:
Cultivated on terraced hillside vineyards near Marezige and Truške at around 250–350 m elevation. Soils comprised of limestone and marl, enhanced by cooling Adriatic breezes and continental warmth. The vineyards are farmed organically with minimal intervention to preserve terroir integrity.

Appearance:
Deep amber-gold with a soft haze indicating minimal filtering; displays a smooth viscosity.

Nose:
Inviting aromas of dried yellow apple, apricot, honeycomb, and citrus peel, followed by notes of chamomile, beeswax, and light herbal spice.

Palate:
Medium-bodied, with a chewy texture balanced by fresh acidity. The skin contact delivers a palate of preserved fruit (apricot, quince), saline tension, and floral-herbal nuance. Fine tannins give grip while richness remains focused.

Finish:
Warm and lingering—fruit recedes into crunchy mineral and herbal echoes, leaving a crisp, persistent saline lift finish.

Overall Impression:
A nuanced orange wine with texture, balance, and depth. Excellent with shellfish, grilled vegetables, smoked fish, or soft cheeses. Best served slightly chilled (14–16 °C) and consumed during the next 2–3 years for brightest impact.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~13.0%
Farming Practices: Certified organic, minimal intervention, hand-harvested
Producer Name: Rodica Winery (Marinko Rodica & team)
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Slovenia
Region: Istria, Primorska (near Marezige/Truške)
Grape Varietals: 100% Malvazija Istriana
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Medium-bodied, aromatic skin-contact white with citrus, stone‑fruit, and herbal spice, rounded in texture, and saline mineral depth
Winemaking Techniques: Hand-harvested; ~48 hour skin maceration; spontaneous native-yeast fermentation; aged ~6 months on lees in neutral large oak and stainless steel; bottled unfiltered with minimal sulphur
Pack Size: 750 ml bottle
Container Style: Standard orange/white wine bottle
Closure Style: Cork