In Plavje, at the northernmost edge of Slovenian Istria, the hills open towards the Gulf of Trieste, while the Mediterranean sun creates ideal conditions for growing vines and olive trees. For several generations, the Čok family has been producing wine and olive oil, building a story that remains deeply connected to the local land. Malvasia and Refosco are at the heart of their production – two characteristic Istrian grape varieties that take on a fresh, straightforward and distinctly Mediterranean character in Čok wines.
At Home in Plavje
The story of the Čok family estate begins in Plavje near Škofije, a small village on a hill close to the Slovenian-Italian border. From here, the view stretches towards the Gulf of Trieste, while the location between the sea and the Istrian hinterland strongly influences the local way of life and the produce of the estate.
The family has been involved in wine and olive oil production for several generations. In addition to vines and olive trees, the estate is home to figs, herbs and various fruit trees – all the elements that give the Istrian landscape its distinctive aromas and flavours. The warmth of the sun, proximity to the sea and mild Mediterranean climate are also reflected in the wines, which are fresh, easy-drinking and made for sharing around a good meal.
The produce from Plavje was once primarily sold to customers in nearby Trieste. As interest, praise and demand began to grow, the family gradually expanded its offer to a wider Slovenian audience. In this way, Čok wines became part of a broader Istrian story connecting the farm, cuisine and hospitality.
Malvasia – The White Side of Slovenian Istria
Malvasia is the signature white wine of the Čok family brand. It is one of the most characteristic grape varieties of Slovenian Istria, with the proximity of the sea and sunny location giving it pleasant freshness, fruitiness and a Mediterranean character. In the glass, it naturally pairs with fish, shellfish, seafood pasta and lighter Istrian dishes.
At Čok, Malvasia is not limited to a single style. Alongside their classic dry Malvasia, they also produce Golden Malvasia, a slightly sweeter wine made from selected vintages, as well as a lively sparkling version, or frizzante. Their range is complemented by a Malvasia blend with Muscat, created for lovers of more aromatic and slightly sweeter wines.
This variety of styles shows just how versatile the same Istrian grape variety can be – from a fresh wine for a summer lunch to a richer accompaniment for special occasions.
Refosco – The Dark Character of Istria
If Malvasia represents the brighter and fresher side of the Istrian wine story, Refosco brings depth. It is known for its intense dark colour, pronounced fruit aromas and lively acidity, making it a natural match for prosciutto, cured meats, grilled meat and more robust Mediterranean dishes.
The Čok family produces both a fresh Refosco and a more mature version that develops in oak barrels. A special place is reserved for Stare Plante, a wine named after the family’s oldest vineyard. Its name itself points to the wine’s connection with the estate and with vines that carry the memory of several generations.
When Wine Meets Istrian Cuisine
One of the defining features of the Čok story is its close connection with cuisine. The family initially presented its home-grown products at Istrska hiša, before later bringing Istrian flavours to Ljubljana as well. In 2015, the Mediterranean restaurant Altrokè and the Vino & Ribe bistro opened in Ljubljana’s historic city centre.
Čok wines became the house wines there, where their core philosophy comes to life particularly well: wine is not made solely for judging and tasting, but for the table. Malvasia accompanies fish, shellfish and seafood tapas, while Refosco pairs with dishes featuring more pronounced flavours. In this way, the story that begins among the vineyards of Plavje continues in the glass alongside contemporary interpretations of Istrian cuisine.
A Small Estate with a Distinct Identity
The Čok family remains focused on limited, carefully curated production, with Malvasia and Refosco making up most of their range. Rather than offering a wide selection of international grape varieties, they focus on wines that are inseparably connected to Slovenian Istria and its way of life.
Their distinctive labels also reflect a contemporary approach to tradition. They bring together the warmth of a family estate with a desire to introduce Istrian wine to today’s guests – without losing sight of its origins.
Contact
Čok Family Estate
Plavje, 6281 Škofije, Slovenia
Phone: +386 31 323 252
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.cok.si
