It doesn’t have to be mentioned specifically that autumn is the most intense and yet the most wonderful time of the year for winegrowers and winemakers. They spread this joy among their guests, who visit Slovenia’s wine-producing regions in autumn. They’ll invite you to join the harvest, get to know their wines at different festivals and events, discover interesting traditions and celebrate with them. Here are a few good reasons to visit the wine-growing regions of Slovenia in autumn.
Everything starts in vineyards. Ripe grape berries call to be harvested, which doesn’t only denote hard work in Slovenia, but is also considered to be a one-of-a-kind social event. Besides family members, harvests are attended by neighbours and friends, and in some areas other guests are invited as well. If you receive such an invitation, don’t hesitate to accept. Grab a pair of vineyard shears and join in the cheerful atmosphere among the vines stimulated by the sound of an accordion. A feast, likof, will follow at the end as a reward consisting of local delicacies and wine, of course.
Where does the oldest vine in the world grow? At Lent in Maribor, the town nestled between the Drava River and the green Pohorje Hills. The noble renowned vine that is more than 450 years old boasts many unique features. It has its own museum, festival and even an anthem. Most events celebrating the Old Vine take place in autumn during the Old Vine Festival. It all begins with a solemn harvest and ends with the traditional St Martin’s Day celebrations in November. During this time, you can attend various events or visit the Old Vine House where it’s possible to try the Old Vine’s authentic wine.
Slovenia has three wine-growing regions and a number of festivals are organised in each of them where local and other wines are showcased. Certain events also integrate wines with other local (gastronomic) peculiarities. Although, the majority of events taking place in vineyards and wine cellars are organised in autumn, festivals and gatherings featuring wine also take place during other seasons.
True worshippers of wine are aware of the importance of wine culture for the experience of wine to be really authentic. Diverse experiences and quaint features well worth exploring are connected to wine and wine-producing hills. How about a tasting of sparkling wine that hasn’t been exposed to light? Or a glass of wine from a wine fountain? Perhaps you might be interested in the oldest wine cellar that has been in existence for more than 700 years? Or an authentic experience of wine-producing and wine-making tradition with locals in typical vineyard cottages and repnice (turnip storage caves that have been turned into wine cellars)?
Once the grapes are harvested, they go into a press and from that must is squeezed, which only becomes young wine on St Martin’s Day that is by far the largest holiday for winemakers. It’s celebrated on 11 November when many festivities are held around the country and where the new wine harvest is celebrated. In addition to young wine, the traditional St Martin’s feast must also be served, which includes roasted goose or duck, red cabbage and mlinci pasta tatters. Extensive St Martin’s Day celebrations are usually held in larger towns of wine-producing regions, which are variegated with performances by music groups and other accompanying events.
Podravska, Posavska and Primorska are three wine-producing regions in Slovenia, each with their own specific character and typical wines. The stars of Primorska include Karst Teran, the indigenous wines of the Vipava Valley, Malvasia and Refošk on the coast and Rebula in the Goriška Brda Hills. The Podravska region is famed for its high-quality white wines, while the Dolenjska Cviček is the highlight of the Posavska region, including Bizeljčan, Metliška Črnina and Belokranjec that are embellished with the protected designation of origin (PDO). When it comes to quality wines, the magic touch of winemakers is also crucial.
The best wine is made with a great measure of love and dedication. Slovenia boasts a number of excellent winemakers who have received awards both at home and abroad. Certain stories in the Slovenian wine-making and wine-producing sphere are particularly inspiring and promote boutique wine production in harmony with nature.
It’s not only the atmosphere, the landscape itself is also bestowed with a touch of magic in these autumn days and it’s certainly worth exploring in an active way. Drive along the picturesque wine roads and travel between green destinations renowned for their gastronomy. Venture on foot along the paths that lead among the vineyards. Soak in the magic of autumn in Slovenia’s wine-growing regions.
Cycle along the new cycling route that only links the destinations equipped with the Slovenia Green label. Find culinary delights in sustainability-focused restaurants, also those boasting Michelin stars, and enjoy the breath-taking views from the paths winding among vineyards, health resorts and tourist farms.
MoreCycle along the new cycling route that only links the destinations equipped with the Slovenia Green label. Find culinary delights in sustainability-focused restaurants, also those boasting Michelin stars, and enjoy the breath-taking views from the paths winding among vineyards, health resorts and tourist farms.
MoreAutumn or the time of grape harvesting is the perfect season to ride a bike on the wine roads winding among the vineyards. The picturesque landscape and hospitable local people will turn your journey into an unforgettable experience and the kilometres of pedal-pushing will drift by like a blissful dream.
MoreA stroll through the vineyards is an unforgettable experience, especially in autumn, when the grapes ripen and the foliage takes on warm shades of orange, yellow and red. Many hiking trails in wine-growing areas are also wine roads, where you can make a stop at wineries and combine hiking with the experience of tasting wine and local delicacies.
MoreTop Slovenian cyclist Primož Roglič enjoys spending his leisure time with his wife Lora and their two children. Join them on their cycling trip along the wine-producing region of Štajerska while exploring the gastronomic treats found between the towns of Jeruzalem and Ptuj.
MoreDiscover the parts of Slovenia adorned with vine-growing hills. Enjoy gourmet experiences and top them off with delicious natural wines. Learn about the peculiarities of individual regions where local wine traditions play a significant role.
Discover why Slovenia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for gourmets.
Natural wines are an important complement to sustainable gastronomy.
Pannonian Slovenia – a place to relax in natural spas, try prekmurska gibanica and meet the storks.
Enjoy the warmth of the seaside sun caressing your skin or descend to the mysterious world of underground caves.
If you visit the Primorska wine region, be sure to visit the typical osmice wine bars, occasional wine bars, where you will be served local wines and dishes.
Wake up in the embrace of vineyards!
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