Benvenuti Santa Elisabetta is a premium single-vineyard expression of Teran, sourced from a distinctive hillside site in central Istria at around 330 meters above sea level, where limestone-rich soils and strong sun exposure enable full grape ripening and concentration. The wine is made from carefully selected fruit with reduced yields, resulting in depth, structure, and intensity.
In the glass, it shows a deep, almost opaque ruby color with violet reflections, while the nose reveals layered aromas of ripe sour cherry, plum, dried fruit, tobacco, and spice. On the palate, it is full-bodied and powerful, yet balanced by the naturally high acidity typical of Teran, which gives freshness and lift to the wine. The tannins are firm but ripe, supporting long aging potential, while the finish is persistent, with notes of dark chocolate, spice, and ripe fruit.
The wine is aged in oak barrels for at least two years, followed by additional bottle aging, allowing complexity to develop without overwhelming the varietal character. Benvenuti Santa Elisabetta stands as a refined and structured interpretation of Teran, best paired with red meats, game, and aged cheeses, and benefits from decanting before serving to fully раскры its aromatic profile.
Producer
Benvenuti Winery is nestled in the Istrian village of Kaldir, near Motovun, where winemaking is not just a craft but a way of life. For generations, the Benvenuti family has cultivated vines on steep hillsides between 250 and 400 meters above sea level, preserving the authenticity of native varieties such as Istrian Malvazija, Teran, and Muscat. Their philosophy is rooted in respect for the terroir and natural conditions, especially the renowned San Salvatore site, where the unique combination of soil and microclimate creates wines of remarkable freshness, minerality, and character.
By blending tradition with modern methods, they craft wines that faithfully reflect the essence of Motovun’s hillsides. The story began in 1946, when Petar Benvenuti planted the first family vineyards. Today, under the guidance of Livio, Albert, and Nikola Benvenuti, the winery continues to nurture this legacy, producing wines recognized and awarded across the globe. From the refreshing Malvazija and powerful Teran to prestigious labels such as Anno Domini and Santa Elisabetta, every Benvenuti wine carries the hallmark of passion, dedication, and Istrian authenticity.