Malvasia Istriana (one of the many grapes in the Malvasia family) is originally from Croatia, which is less than 100 miles southeast from the vineyards of Conte Romano in the northeast corner of Italy. An ancient grape of style and substance, Malvasia makes a wine I can fairly call a “wine geek’s delight” because it does take many forms. This young pup from Conte Romano sports a rich, round mouthfeel, gently floral and mineral-y aromas, a bit of crushed rock earthiness and a core of pear and stone fruit earthiness. For body and texture it compares favorably to a more earthy-style Chardonnay but with more dried floral and honey/almond flavors. Pairs great with slightly aged cheeses and oily fish like mackerel and salmon.
