Masterclass Explores Central Otago & Istria's Diverse Wines
A recent masterclass delved into the diverse wines of Central Otago, New Zealand, and Istria, Croatia, highlighting regional differences and exceptional examples. The event showcased the Landwalker Chardonnay (£34) and Pinot Noir (£40), along with notable Croatian wines like Matošević's Alba Malvazija Istarska 2024 and Kozlović's Santa Lucia Malvazija.
The masterclass explored Central Otago's Bannockburn, Northburn, and Waitaki sub-regions through Te Kano's Land Series Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The Landwalker Chardonnay combined vibrant aromatics and pure fruit from all three regions. Meanwhile, the Pinot Noir displayed the graphite tannic structure of Northburn and weight from Bannockburn, lifted by Waitaki's aromatics.
In Istria, the event celebrated the popular Malvazija Istarska grape. Matošević's Alba Malvazija Istarska 2024 (£18.90-£22.95) exemplified the fresher style of the grape. Kozlović's Santa Lucia Malvazija offered a top expression, with intricately layered flavours. The masterclass also introduced Istria's indigenous red grape, Teran, through Fakin's Il Primo Teran 2020 and Agrolaguna's Festigia Teran 2023.
The Vinistra Winners Showcase at the World Wine Awards celebrated Croatian wine's achievements, with a Platinum medal and 14 Golds. Companhia de Vinhos dos Profetas e Villões, founded in 2020 by Susana Neves, presented standout wines like Rosé dos Villões 2024, Caracol dos Profetas 2024, and Vinho da Corda 2023.
The masterclass revealed the distinct characteristics of wines from Central Otago's sub-regions and Istria's diverse grape varieties. Notable wines included Landwalker's Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Matošević's Alba Malvazija, and Kozlović's Santa Lucia Malvazija. The Vinistra Winners Showcase further highlighted Croatian wine's excellence, with Companhia de Vinhos dos Profetas e Villões earning recognition for its innovative approach.
