Ipša: Olive Oil, Wine and Truffles in the Village Where the Forest Smells of Istria
In Livade, in the heart of the Mirna Valley, an Istrian family produces extra virgin olive oil from centuries-old olive trees, natural wines, and knows the forests where truffles grow.
Livade, Istria
Livade is synonymous with the Istrian truffle. This is where the Ipša family has been producing extra virgin olive oil from centuries-old olive trees, crafting natural wines, and, when the season allows, leading visitors into the surrounding forests since 1998—always at their own unhurried pace.
Livade is a small village in the Mirna Valley, just below the hilltop town of Motovun. It's known for one thing above all: truffles. Every October, the Livade Truffle Days attract enthusiasts from across Europe, while the forests along the Mirna River yield both Istrian white and black truffles—less famous than those from Alba, but no less prized, and far more accessible.
The Ipša family has lived and worked here since 1998. The oldest olive trees on the estate are over 200 years old—they were already mature when Napoleon brought the Republic of Venice to an end. From three varieties—Frantoio, Istarska Bjelica and Leccino—they produce extra virgin olive oils with distinct personalities, best experienced side by side, much like a wine tasting, where aromas, bitterness, pepperiness and finish reveal their differences. Their wines follow the same philosophy: small-scale production, deep respect for the land, and nothing unnecessary.
You can simply turn up without a reservation—there's almost always someone from the family on the estate, ready to share their story and guide you through a tasting. It's the kind of place that doesn't seek the spotlight, yet stays with you long after you've left.
This is an independent editorial feature.
Photo ©ipsa-maslinovaulja.com
Practical Information
Location: Livade, Istria
Duration: Half a Day
Estimated price: Free tasting or voluntary donation
