Istarska bjelica is a robust, indigenous Istrian olive variety known for its high oil yield and excellent, distinctly bitter and spicy oil quality.
Istarska bjelica
Origin
Found throughout Istria and Kvarner.
Agro biological properties Robust, of medium size, with dense foliage inclined to grow high. Branches are straight, long, robust; fruit bearing branches are straight or slightly sagging. Leaves are green and elliptical. Olives are medium-large and oval. When fully ripe, drupes become light-yellow, occasionally with an opaque purple surface.
Fruit bearing High and regular, with high oil yield. Young plants are late to bear fruit.
Fertilization Anemophile (wind carried). Recommended fertilizers: Leccino, Frantoio.
Resistance to adversities Sensitive to olive fly (bactrocea oleae). Resistant to lower temperatures and wind (bura).
Quality of the oil Excellent. Distinctly bitter and spicy.
Grubić is a renowned Istrian olive grower based in Bale, known for its award-winning extra virgin olive oil and a historic oil mill renovated in 2006. The estate manages 8 hectares of olive groves with 1,700 trees, producing high-quality oils recognized in the Flos Olei guide.
Anđelini is a winery in Central Istria specializing in local and international grape varieties, located at 440-474m altitude with a 14-hectare vineyard. The estate offers wine tasting for up to 45 guests and produces honey alongside its wines.
Clai Terre Bianche is a renowned Istrian olive grower located in Krasica, offering high-quality organic olive oil produced in their own oil mill. The estate features 1,500 olive trees, a tasting room, and additional amenities including a restaurant and accommodation.
Agro Millo is a renowned olive grower located in the Baredine area of Buje, North Istria, offering high-quality olive oil production and tasting experiences.
Babos is a recommended winery in Vodnjan, South Istria, producing wines from indigenous Croatian grape varieties on 6.5 hectares of red soil vineyard, with a tasting room capacity of 40 and complementary olive oil and distillate products.
The Istrian Pasta Festival in Žminj is a celebration of traditional Istrian pasta, featuring workshops, food shows, and local culinary heritage under the chestnut trees of Zad Kaštela.