More information on Karst

The Karst Plateau, also known as the Carso, is a limestone plateau located in northeastern Italy, near the Slovenian border. This unique landscape has been shaped by the forces of nature over millions of years, resulting in a fascinating terrain of caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers. The Karst Plateau has been inhabited by humans since prehistoric times, and it has a rich cultural and historical heritage that can be seen in the traditional architecture and customs of the local communities, and also in the food and wine heritage.

The Karst Plateau is one of Italy's best-kept secrets when it comes to wine tourism. This region is home to some of the most exciting and innovative winemakers in Italy, who are producing exceptional wines from a variety of grape varieties. Visitors can explore the vineyards, visit the wineries, and taste the wines, all while taking in the stunning scenery of the Karst Plateau.

One of the most unique aspects of wine tourism in the Karst Plateau is the presence of "osmizze," which are traditional wine cellars where local winemakers sell their products directly to visitors. These osmizze are open for a limited time each year, and they offer visitors the chance to taste some of the best wines from the region, accompanied by delicious local food.

Which food to taste in Karst?

Besides wine, the Karst Plateau is also known for its exceptional food, which is based on simple, locally sourced ingredients that are full of flavor. Some of the most popular dishes in the region include prosciutto di San Daniele, a cured ham that is renowned for its delicate flavor, and frico, a dish made from cheese and potatoes that is cooked until crispy.

Another popular food in the region is jota, a soup made from beans, sauerkraut, and smoked pork. This hearty soup is perfect for warming up on a cold day, and it pairs perfectly with a glass of local wine.

Which wines to taste in Karst?

By taking part in wine tours, it can be appreciated that the Karst Plateau is known for its unique grape varieties, which are grown on the region's rocky, limestone soil. The most important grape in the region is Vitovska, a white grape that produces wines with a distinctive minerality and acidity. Other important grape varieties in the region include Malvasia Istriana, which produces aromatic white wines, and Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, which produces full-bodied red wines.

Which is the best season to visit Karst?

The best time to visit the Karst Plateau is in the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this time, visitors can enjoy the beautiful weather and explore the vineyards and wineries. The osmizze are also open during this time, giving visitors the chance to taste some of the best wines from the region.

What things to do in Karst?

If you're visiting the Karst Plateau, there are plenty of things to see and do in addition to wine tasting. One of the most popular attractions in the region is the Grotta Gigante, which is the largest show cave in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and learn about its fascinating geological history.

Another must-see destination in the region is the city of Trieste, which is located on the Adriatic Sea. Trieste is a cultural and historical hub, with many museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks to explore. Visitors can also enjoy the city's famous coffee culture, with many historic cafes offering delicious coffee and pastries.