CUJ Winery

CUJ Winery, situated near Umag in the village of Farnažine, is a family-run estate that embodies the soul of traditional Istrian winemaking. With deep roots in the land and a commitment to minimal intervention, CUJ produces honest, expressive wines from native varietals like Malvazija, Teran, and Refosk. It’s a must-visit for those seeking authenticity, warmth, and a true taste of rural Istria.

Winery information

Hours:

Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: Closed

Address:

Farnažine 6A, 52470, Sveta Marija na Krasu, Croatia

Phone:

+385 98 219 277

Website:

https://www.cuj.hr/

Ambiance

The atmosphere at CUJ Winery is simple, rural, and real. Tucked into the countryside just outside of Umag, the winery’s rustic charm reflects the family’s humble and heartfelt approach. Visitors are welcomed into the cellar or courtyard, where the focus is always on good wine, good company, and good stories.

Wines

CUJ produces a range of expressive wines rooted in Istrian tradition. Their Malvazija is fresh and mineral-driven, often unfiltered and alive with texture. Teran is bold and earthy with vibrant acidity, and Refosk offers dark fruit and rustic elegance. The winery also produces natural-style wines and some intriguing macerated whites (orange wines) for the adventurous palate.CUJ-

Tasting Experience

Tastings at CUJ are informal, personal, and deeply authentic. Guests are typically welcomed by the winemaker or family members, who pour wines straight from the cellar and share stories of heritage, philosophy, and passion. Expect homemade snacks, maybe some olive oil or cheese, and plenty of good conversation.

Tasting Programs

CUJ offers a few casual but heartfelt tasting options:
– Cellar Tasting: Sample a selection of wines in the family’s traditional cellar, accompanied by local bites.
– Natural Wine Experience: Focus on CUJ’s minimal-intervention and skin-contact wines, ideal for natural wine lovers.
– Meet the Maker Tasting: Spend time with the winemaker for an in-depth tasting, discussion, and walk through the vineyard and cellar.

Winery Highlights

Family Tradition: Run by the Legović family, CUJ (named after a nickname for the winemaker’s grandfather) is built on generations of winemaking knowledge and love for the land.
Naturally Made Wines: CUJ is known for its minimal-intervention approach—wines are fermented naturally with wild yeasts and crafted with as little interference as possible.
Native Grape Focus: The winery highlights Istrian classics like Malvazija, Teran, and Refosk, expressing the raw character of the region.
Rustic & Real: CUJ offers an unpolished, genuine winery experience—down-to-earth, welcoming, and full of character.
Local Favorite: Beloved by locals and wine lovers in the know, CUJ’s wines have a loyal following for their authenticity and value.