Slovenian wine boasts a rich, ancient history. Its winemaking predates that of major wine-producing countries like France and Spain.

Today, Slovenia, situated at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean, produces diverse and unique wines across three main wine-growing regions: Primorska, Podravje, and Posavje. Slovenia cultivates both international varieties and unique indigenous grapes

After graduating in Oenology in the 1960s Janez Istenič enjoyed a career as a winemaker at one of Yugoslavia’s state cellars. He won a scholarship to study in Champagne thanks to his love of bubbles. On his return to Slovenia he realised that his father-in-law’s vineyard, which produced wines with “distinct freshness”, had similarities with the high-acid grapes of Champagne.

The rest, as they say, is history!

Pinot Noir is the holy grail grape for many winemakers, it is a difficult mistress, but when made well it shines.

Young Pinot Noir has delicious aromas of cherries, raspberries, and strawberries. With age it develops complexity and mystery. Older wines have the capacity to become a gamey style of wine, and the best examples show autumnal notes of truffles, mushrooms, and forest floor.