Štajerska

This wine-growing region comprises landscapes in the north-east of Slovenia, with characteristic vineyards and a rich tradition. The region is particularly famous for its white varieties such as welschriesling, sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay and furmint. Of the red varieties, modra frankinja and pinot noir are the most abundant.

The Štajerska Slovenija wine-growing region covers around 40% of Slovenia’s wine-growing area. It used to be divided into six quite similar districts, but the merger allows larger growers to source grapes from a wider region. Wine production in Štarerska Slovenija has always been an important economic sector with a long tradition. The most aromatic white wines are produced here, and the region is also renowned for its exceptional predicate wines.

The beautiful landscape, dotted with numerous hills with small rivers winding through them, is characterised by hilltop villages. The landscape is rugged. The Haloze are relatively steep, the Ljutomersko-Ormoške hory are dominated by terraces, Maribor is surrounded by surrounding vineyards, and the Radgonsko-Kapelske hory descend to the north towards the Pannonian plain.

The soils in the area are very varied. They have developed on soft carbonate rocks. In general, various limestone and clay soils predominate.

The climate is continental, with warm summers and cold winters. It becomes increasingly warmer towards Hungary. The warmest and driest areas are around Ormož. Rainfall is relatively high for the area where the vine thrives, but most of it falls in winter. From September onwards, the nights are cooler, allowing the acids and aromatic substances in the grapes to be preserved. Morning fog in September and October allows the development of noble rot, which is necessary for the production of wines of a special quality.

The vines grow mainly on soils with varying slopes. Just as vineyards have different orientations, the composition of the soil can also change very quickly. All of this can be very complex for the grower, but it also allows for certain differences in ripeness and aromatic character, making it possible to produce more complex wines.