Rovinj becomes the centre of the world gin scene! Gins from Europe and New Zealand to be presented
On 17 and 18 October, Rovinj will once again become the centre of the world gin scene — the fourth edition of GinIstra, the largest international festival of gin, distilling equipment and other spirits in this part of Europe, will take place at the Old Tobacco Factory.
35 exhibitors from Croatia, Italy, Serbia, the Netherlands, Austria, the United Kingdom and New Zealand are coming to the festival, presenting more than 60 samples of gin and other spirits.
Visitors will have the chance to discover the latest trends, flavours and innovations in the world of gin, as well as taste products that have won domestic and international awards. The festival's offering will be further enriched by producers of dried fruit, stills, barrels and special edible glitter for drinks, while the expert programme places special emphasis on masterclasses, talks, panels and workshops.
The programme features distinguished local and international experts — representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, the European Parliament (Tomislav Sokol), the Croatian Chamber of Economy, the Chamber of Commerce of Vojvodina, the Institute of Agriculture, as well as numerous distillers and innovators from the region and around the world.
The festival opens its doors on Friday, 17 October at 3 pm, after which the festival's best-rated gins will be announced. An expert jury of oenologists, sommeliers and spirits connoisseurs will select the most successful labels in several categories.
Alongside the expert programme, GinIstra also brings a rich music programme. The popular band Dalmatino will perform on Friday, while Saturday is reserved for a concert by Marko Tolja, further combining a good drink with top-notch entertainment.
By purchasing a ticket, visitors gain the right to take part in all expert sessions, receive a glass to keep, the chance to taste two cocktails of their choice, and free entry to both evening concerts.
"Gins from as many as seven countries confirm that the festival grows bigger every year" — Igor Franković, Festival Director
Organisers point out that GinIstra serves as a "meeting place for producers, hospitality professionals, hoteliers and tourism workers" where new partnerships important for the development of Croatia's food, drink and tourism offering are formed.