A sustainable way of producing wine represents a unique harmony of work and procedures both in vineyards and cellars. By making as few interventions as possible, wine makers try to bring wine closer to Mother Nature, without additives but with a wealth of knowledge, experience and feeling. Orange wines show the dedication of wine makers and their commitment to a comprehensive responsible attitude to nature and farming which supports the sustainable vision of Slovenia and raises the reputation of Slovenian wine makers to the very top. Get to know the beautiful world of natural wines, get yourself prepared for the autumn experience of grape harvest and wine holidays and pamper your taste buds in combination with the haute cuisine of restaurants that put natural wines at the forefront.
Did you know?
Orange wines are white wines produced under the procedure for red wines - with prolonged maceration.
Jade or orange, organic or biodynamic - learn about the main guidelines of natural wine production.
These are wines produced without the use of chemicals or additives. Only home-made preparations are used to protect the vine, the grapes are harvested by hand, and when the work moves to the cellar, wine makers use only yeast from the local vineyard.
There is no definition for the term natural wine, while the terms organic wine and biodynamic wine are more specific and verifiable thanks to established standards (Demeter). Due to their colour, some can be called jade or orange wines, as both terms are acknowledged in the world of wine.
The greatest appeal of natural wines is in the individual approach of the wine makers, as the decisions about the duration of maceration and ageing and the use of barrels or amphoras is determined solely by their inspiration, style and philosophy. This opens up new dimensions of aromas and flavours.
Natural wines are inspiring because they are diverse and different. You need only a touch of curiosity and a playful urge to explore to discover the perfect and unique world of wine that embodies the co-existence of humans and nature, a responsible attitude towards vineyards and land, respect for ecosystems and an almost complete absence of human intervention among grape vines and in the cellar. Get to know who stands behind the so-called orange wine revolution and why natural wines are an important part of Slovenian gastronomy.
If you’re looking for a perfect combination of the natural and delicious, visit one of the selected restaurants that feature natural wines on their wine lists. Be it a top-class restaurant adorned by a Michelin star or a recipient of the Slovenia Green Cuisine sustainability certificate, some of the restaurants in the capital or away from the city bustle – each of them celebrates quality local ingredients and natural wines in its own way.
Autumn is the most joyful season of the year in vineyards. In vineyards, the most joyful time is during the grape harvest, and in wine cellars this is celebrated on St. Martin's Day, when the must turns to young wine. There are plenty of other wine experiences to accompany you on your path of discovery of the wine side of our country - from the oldest vine in the world to a wine safari, from a view of four countries seen from a tower to a selfie by a heart-shaped road among vineyards.
Slovenian wine makers are among the pioneers in developing a fourth wine colour, and many orange wines have helped to rank this kind among the best wines in the world. Natural and orange wines are produced everywhere throughout Slovenia and their growers include many internationally acclaimed wine makers.
Green destinations under the Slovenia Green Destination label strive for sustainable development of tourism that seeks to preserve nature, culture and the local community, while bringing benefits to all stakeholders involved. They pay particular attention to wine stories that support their sustainability-oriented efforts and respect for the local environment and natural resources. Explore destinations with successful stories of natural wine makers who place Slovenia at the top of the world in wine production in a sustainable way.
Sun-Kissed Wine Country between the Alps and the Mediterranean
The Styrian capital at the base of the green Pohorje Mountains
This picturesque historical town with its own green surroundings is a bridge between the Karst and the Sub-Mediterranean world.
The land of unique vines and first-rate cuisine between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea
Nature’s hidden gem
The oldest town in Slovenia, nestled between gentle wine-growing hills and the River Drava.
Slovenia boasts three wine regions, each of which is blessed by native varieties and regional characteristics, helping to raise the awareness of wine enthusiasts about the importance of preserving wine heritage. The latter is particularly emphasised by some of our green destinations, which have committed to including sustainable practices in the field of gastronomy. Don't forget to enjoy wine responsibly.
Get to know the six features of Slovenia for which it is becoming increasingly recognised globally as a country of sustainable culinary art. Check out which restaurants have won the Michelin Sustainability Emblem or one of the other green certificates.
MoreGet to know the six features of Slovenia for which it is becoming increasingly recognised globally as a country of sustainable culinary art. Check out which restaurants have won the Michelin Sustainability Emblem or one of the other green certificates.
MoreSlovenia boasts good wines that are the unique result of the sun, soil and caring human hands. Each of the three wine-growing regions in Slovenia has its own specialities. In some places, you will find indigenous grape varieties. Our sustainable wines, where nature itself plays the main role, are especially worth a taste.
MoreSustainability has many faces and gastronomy is one of them. Locally produced food, traditional culinary arts, natural wines, responsible waste management and the use of natural materials in serving dishes are only some of the aspects of gastronomic sustainability that add additional flavour to some green destinations.
MoreGood water goes well with good wine. And there is plenty of it in Slovenia. Wine is sometimes mixed with quality mineral water to get a pleasing and refreshing drink. Get to know the kingdom of healthy natural waters that also have many positive effects.
MoreCombine practicality with pleasure by exploring wine regions by bicycle. The Slovenia Green gourmet route takes you through picturesque villages and towns, with stops with selected gastronomic offerings awaiting you among the fields and vineyards.
MoreThe 2021 European Region of Gastronomy is a true paradise for gourmets. 24 gastronomic regions and three wine regions inspire with their specialties. They are prepared using foodstuffs sourced from the local environment and are created in harmony with nature.
Where to taste wines from Slovenia's three wine-growing regions?
For more than 450 years, the world’s oldest vine has remained firmly rooted in the heart of Maribor.
Meet Slovenia's gastronomic stars that are now shining on the Michelin sky.
Discover why Slovenia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for gourmets.
Taste the noble gifts of Slovenian soil and the tasty produce of Slovenian farms.
Do you know the typical flavours of the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst and the Pannonian Plain?
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