Our review of the Pervino wine tasting in Novigrad offers a close look at what makes this family-run winery a standout in the Istrian wine scene. If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic experience that pairs excellent wines with local snacks, this tour might be just what you need. We’re especially drawn to the personal attention from hosts and the chance to sample a diverse range of wines reflecting Istria’s terroir. A potential consideration? The experience doesn’t include a cellar or vineyard tour, so if you’re craving a behind-the-scenes look at wine production, this might not fully satisfy that curiosity.
This experience is ideal for those who love wine, enjoy local food, or simply want a taste of Croatian hospitality in a cozy setting. It’s perfect for travelers seeking something more intimate and less commercial than larger wine tours. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a seasoned connoisseur, the flexible approach and friendly atmosphere make this a worthwhile stop on your Istrian itinerary.
Key Points
- Flexible Tasting Selection: Choose from 17 wines, including local favorites like Malvazija Istarska and Teran.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Family-run winery in a well-kept, inviting location.
- Great Value: Around $41 for six wines plus snacks, with the option to book and pay later.
- Personalized Service: Guides tailor the tasting experience based on your preferences.
- Delicious Food Pairings: Cheese, prosciutto, and olive oil complement the wines beautifully.
- Dog-Friendly: Furry friends are welcomed, adding a warm, inclusive vibe.
Exploring Pervino: A Family-Run Croatian Gem
Nestled in the seaside town of Novigrad, Pervino isn’t your typical touristy winery. This is a family venture, blending generations of tradition with a welcoming attitude. The winery produces 17 distinct wines, offering a good mix of local specialties and international varieties like Merlot, Chardonnay, and Muscat. This variety means you can sample the familiar alongside the unique, gaining a real sense of Istria’s diverse vineyard landscape.
We loved the way Pervino emphasizes quality and authenticity—these are wines that reflect the terroir of Istria, a region known for its crisp whites and vibrant reds. The wines are crafted with care, and you can tell that the family’s passion shows in every pour.
Planning more time in Novigrad? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What to Expect on Your Visit
Arrival and Selection of Wines
Upon arriving, you’ll be greeted in a cozy, well-kept setting that immediately feels like being welcomed into someone’s home. The real perk here is the ability to choose which wines you want to taste from a selection of 17 options. You aren’t locked into a preset lineup; instead, the guide helps you pick your favorites, making the experience feel more personalized.
The initial tasting features three wines, allowing you to start gently and compare different styles. The guide shared interesting facts about each wine, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable. As one reviewer noted, the guide adjusted the wines to their taste, which adds a layer of personalized service that many travelers appreciate.
Food and Snacks
Between tastings, a plate of cold cuts, cheese, and local olive oil is brought out. The snacks are simple but thoughtfully presented, allowing the wine flavors to shine without overwhelming your palate. The olive oil, in particular, is a highlight—rich, flavorful, and perfect for dipping bread or drizzling over cheese.
A brief presentation about the olive oils and local delicacies enriches the experience. This pairing elevates the tasting from mere sipping to a full sensory experience, making it feel like a genuine taste of Istria.
More Great Tours NearbyContinuing the Tasting Experience
After the snacks, you’ll move on to the remaining three wines. This part of the tasting rounds out your experience, showcasing some of the winery’s most acclaimed bottles. The overall session is relaxed, with plenty of time to chat with the guides and soak in the friendly, informal atmosphere.
Group Size and Duration
The experience is designed for small groups, which creates an intimate environment where questions and preferences are encouraged. While the exact length isn’t specified, most tasting sessions tend to last around 1-2 hours—ample time to savor the wines and enjoy the company.
The Value and Why It Works
At $41 per person, this tasting offers excellent value. You’re sampling six wines—some of which are highly regarded—plus enjoying local snacks, all guided by knowledgeable hosts. Many reviews mention the high quality of the wines and food relative to the price. As one guest put it, “The price and quality for 35 euros for six wines and a delicious snack platter is very reasonable.”
The flexible booking options—including paying later and canceling up to 24 hours in advance—make planning easier, especially if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.
Authenticity and Personal Touch
One of the most praised aspects of this experience is the personalized service. The hosts are friendly and attentive, sharing interesting facts and adjusting the tasting to your preferences. As one reviewer expressed, “The hostess was incredibly friendly and adjusted the wines to what we liked. The wines were amazing and also the antipasti platter was delicious!”
This personal approach is what sets Pervino apart from larger, more commercial wineries. The relaxed, family-run atmosphere invites genuine conversation and makes you feel like a guest rather than just a tourist.
The Downsides—What to Keep in Mind
While the tasting does include plenty of wine and snacks, it does not include a tour of the cellar or vineyard. If you’re eager to see where and how the wines are made, you’ll need to look elsewhere or ask if that might be available additionally. Also, the experience is located in Novigrad, so transportation will need to be arranged separately if you aren’t staying nearby.
The experience’s focus on tasting and local flavors makes it ideal for those who want an authentic, relaxed introduction to Istrian wines, rather than a comprehensive winery tour.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This wine tasting is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, local authenticity, and delicious pairings. It’s an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who want to enjoy Croatian hospitality in a welcoming setting. It’s also a great option for those curious about Istria’s wine varieties but not necessarily eager for a full vineyard tour.
If you love trying new wines and sampling local foods in a friendly, informal environment, you’ll find this experience a real highlight. However, if you’re seeking a more comprehensive or vineyard-focused tour, you might want to supplement this experience with a visit that includes a vineyard walk.
The Sum Up
The Pervino wine tasting in Novigrad offers a genuine taste of Istrian wines in a warm, family-run setting. You get to sample a curated selection of high-quality wines, complemented by local snacks like cheese, prosciutto, and olive oil. The personalized service, relaxed atmosphere, and flexibility in booking make it an appealing option for travelers wanting an authentic Croatian experience without the fuss.
This tour is especially well-suited for those who appreciate friendly hosts, authentic flavors, and a personal touch. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or someone eager to learn more about Istria’s wine culture, Pervino delivers a memorable, value-packed experience.
For anyone craving a taste of local life, it’s a charming way to spend an hour or two in Novigrad—and walk away with a deeper appreciation for Croatian wines.
FAQs
Is transportation included in this wine tasting?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to reach Pervino in Novigrad.
Can I choose what wines to taste?
Yes, you can select your preferred wines from the 17 available options upon arrival, making the experience personalized.
Is there a cellar or vineyard tour?
No, this experience focuses on tasting and pairing; a cellar or vineyard tour isn’t part of the itinerary.
How many wines will I taste during the session?
You’ll taste a total of 6 wines, split into two rounds of three, with snacks in between.
Is the experience dog-friendly?
Yes, furry friends are warmly welcomed, adding a friendly, casual vibe.
Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.
What’s the typical duration of the tasting?
While not specified precisely, expect around 1-2 hours, enough time to enjoy the wines, snacks, and conversation comfortably.