Istria, top summer food destinations
Istria, Croatia
In Istria, Croatia's northern peninsula, the land is bursting with all things green. Vineyards flank winding roads. Trees, heavy with figs and peaches, hang over garden gates.
Croatia's 1,390-square-mile northern peninsula is known for its freshly caught seafood, terraced olive groves, hilltop vineyards and truffles. Head to 120-year-old Kabola, Istria's first green-certified winery, to taste wines that have been partly aged in amphoras, or clay vessels.
The family vintners are especially passionate about regional Malvazija grapes; if you like red, don't miss the peppery 2009 Teran.
Afterward, drive 15 minutes south to dine on cuttlefish in its own ink topped with silky puréed potatoes and a generous portion of black truffle shavings at San Rocco Hotel's restaurant.
Beyond Croatia, summer's food groups are as distinctive as countries themselves.