Introducing the Pervino Wine Tasting Experience in Istria
If you’re heading to Croatia’s Istria region and want a taste of local life along with some excellent wines, the Pervino winery in Novigrad offers a charming experience. This family-run operation has garnered solid reviews for its friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable hosts, and thoughtfully curated tasting. For around $40 per person, you’ll enjoy a two-hour guided tour through six distinct wines, with the option to customize your tasting to suit your preferences — a real bonus for those who love discovering new flavors.
What I particularly like about this experience is how it combines authentic Istrian wine traditions with a personal touch. The hosts, from the Peruri family, are described as friendly and attentive, making the whole visit feel more like chatting with friends rather than a formal tasting. Plus, the pairing of wines with local snacks, like cheese, prosciutto, and olive oil, elevates the whole experience beyond just sipping wine — it’s a genuine taste of Istrian culture.
One consideration to keep in mind is that the visit doesn’t include a tour of the cellar or vineyards — this is a tasting-focused experience, so if you’re eager to see the vineyards or production process, you might need additional arrangements. Also, transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you aren’t staying nearby. Still, for those seeking an immersive yet relaxed wine experience, Pervino offers excellent value.
Key Points/Takeaways
- Personalized tasting: Choose from 17 wines, including Malvazija Istarska and Teran, with options to tailor your tasting experience.
- Local family-run: The Peruri family’s passion shines through in their friendly, welcoming approach.
- Quality pairings: Snacks like cheeses and prosciutto, complemented with house olive oil, enhance the tasting.
- Authentic flavors: You’ll encounter both traditional Istrian varieties and internationally renowned wines like Merlot and Chardonnay.
- Flexible booking: Reserve with the option to pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Furry friends welcome: Unlike many experiences, your pets are invited to share the fun.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Novigrad.
An in-depth look at the Pervino Wine Tasting Experience in Novigrad
The Location and Setting: A Family-Worthy Venue
When you arrive at Pervino, you’ll find yourself in a cozy, family-run winery located in Novigrad, a picturesque town on Croatia’s Istrian coast. The winery’s setting is welcoming, with a warm atmosphere that invites you to relax and focus on the tasting. It’s not a grand, commercial operation; instead, it radiates charm and authenticity, making it clear that this is a place where tradition and passion for wine are alive and well.
How the Experience Begins: Choosing Your Wines
The experience starts at the winery’s tasting room, where you are encouraged to select from their 17 wines. This is a notable feature — you’re not just handed a fixed tasting menu but can customize your experience based on your preferences. Whether you’re into crisp whites like Malvazija or robust reds like Teran, or even curious about Muscat or Chardonnay, you can tailor your tasting. This level of flexibility is appreciated by many guests, especially those with specific tastes or wine knowledge.
The Guided Tasting: From Classic to Unique
The tasting itself is structured around six wines, divided into two segments. First, you’ll sample three wines, giving you a chance to savor the character of Istrian varieties and some internationally recognized options. The hosts, often described as friendly and accommodating, will introduce each wine with helpful tips on their origin and flavor profile.
After the initial trio, a delicious plate of cold cuts and olive oil is served, adding a flavorful, textural dimension to the experience. This pairing is not just filler but carefully curated to complement the wines. Guests have praised the host’s flexibility and friendliness, with one reviewer noting how the host “adjusted the wines to what we liked,” making the experience feel very personalized.
Next, you’ll continue with the remaining three wines, possibly exploring more local or distinctive options. The entire process is relaxed, with plenty of room for questions and conversation, creating an environment where you can truly appreciate the wines and their story.
Snacks and Pairings: A Taste of Istria
The pairing of cheese, prosciutto, and house olive oil is a highlight for many visitors. The snacks are locally sourced and reflect the region’s culinary traditions. The olive oil, in particular, receives praise; many mention how it adds depth and authenticity to the tasting. It’s a reminder that wine in Istria is often enjoyed alongside simple, high-quality food.
The Atmosphere and Host Interaction
Guests consistently highlight the warm, friendly nature of the hosts, often mentioning their knowledge and willingness to customize the experience. Darius described the service as “friendly and competent,” which is not always a given in small wineries. If you’re someone who enjoys a conversational, informal setting, Pervino delivers.
Duration, Price, and Practical Details
The two-hour duration strikes an excellent balance — enough time to savor each wine without feeling rushed. The cost of $40 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the personalized approach and quality of wines. Keep in mind, the tasting does not include a tour of the cellar or vineyards, so if you’re interested in seeing production areas, you’ll need to seek out additional experiences.
Transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly. The winery is accessible and wheelchair-friendly, making it suitable for a range of travelers. Since pets are welcome, it’s a good choice if you want to bring your furry friends along.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tasting appeals most to visitors who appreciate authentic, family-run wineries with a personal touch. It’s perfect for those who want to explore Istrian wines beyond the usual bottles found in stores, as well as travelers eager to pair wine with regional snacks. It’s also suitable for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy engaging conversations about wine with friendly hosts.
The Overall Value
Considering the price, the quality and authenticity of the wines, and the inclusive atmosphere, Pervino offers excellent value. The option to customize your selection and the pairing with local snacks enhances the experience, making it more than just a tasting — it’s a small, memorable encounter with Istrian culture.
Final Thoughts: Is It for You?
If you’re seeking a relaxed, personable wine experience in Istria, Pervino delivers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy good conversation, authentic regional flavors, and a touch of hospitality. Those looking for a grand tour of vineyards or cellar tours might need to look elsewhere, but if you value quality over quantity and appreciate local family-run businesses, this tasting is a gem.
FAQs about Pervino Wine Tasting
Can I choose which wines to taste?
Yes. You can select from their 17 wines, including traditional Istrian varieties like Malvazija Istarska and Teran, as well as international options like Merlot and Chardonnay.
Is the experience suitable for allergy sufferers?
While the provided info doesn’t specify dietary accommodations, the pairing includes cheese, prosciutto, and olive oil. If you have allergies, it’s best to contact Pervino directly beforehand.
Are pets allowed during the tasting?
Yes, furry friends are wholeheartedly invited to share in the experience, making it a friendly environment for travelers with pets.
How long does the tasting last?
The experience runs approximately two hours, providing ample time to enjoy the wines, snacks, and conversation.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t provided, so plan your arrival accordingly, whether by car, taxi, or other means.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Is the winery accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all visitors.
Is there an option to pay later?
Indeed, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility when planning your trip.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, due to the limited nature of small-group tastings, booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time.
What’s the best way to combine this with other activities?
Since the tasting doesn’t include a vineyard or cellar tour, it pairs well with a day exploring Novigrad or neighboring Istrian towns, or with other cultural or culinary experiences.
In essence, Pervino’s wine tasting offers a straightforward, friendly way to enjoy some of the best local wines in a setting that feels more like visiting friends than a commercial operation. For those who savor regional flavors, friendly hosts, and authentic touches, this experience can be a highlight of an Istrian trip.