The best (value) Styria?
Pronounced Shty-er-ska, Štajerska is also known as Slovenian Styria. Though it shares much with its Austrian namesake and neighbour, Slovenian Styria has a wine story all its own.
White wine heartland
Around 90% of the wines produced in Štajerska are white. This makes perfect sense when you consider the geography: high altitude, a cool continental climate and long growing seasons. Picture an idyllic Swiss landscape of rolling hills and pristine vineyards, then add serious value for money, and you have Štajerska.
The white wines range from well-known international varieties (our friends at Hiša Joannes Protner are particularly respected for their Rieslings) to regional favourites such as Furmint and Welschriesling, and even truly local grapes like Ranfol, a variety we are especially fond of.
Wine goes way back here
For many people, Slovenia feels like a relatively new wine country. In reality, its wine culture stretches back centuries. The most powerful symbol of this heritage is the world’s oldest grapevine in Maribor.
At over 450 years old, this venerable vine still produces fruit. Each year, locals gather for a ceremonial pruning, and the vine even has its own song.
If you find yourself in the region, Maribor is well worth a visit. Its peaceful riverfront offers just the right balance of cafés, restaurants and, of course, wine bars.
What’s next for Štajerska?
Štajerska remains under the radar. It is not even listed as a standalone region in many major wine books. That will not last forever.
The winemakers here are steadily building a world-class reputation, particularly for orange and natural wines. While much of the wine world has only recently embraced these styles, producers in Štajerska have been refining skin contact and low-intervention techniques for decades.
Establishing a vineyard takes time. Establishing one organically takes even longer. Many growers here have already done the hard work. As climate pressures intensify across Europe’s largest producing regions, cooler, high-altitude areas like Štajerska are likely to become increasingly significant.
For a thoughtful introduction to the wines of Štajerska, explore the range from Hiša Joannes Protner below.
Not in the trade? Visit our online shop to buy these wines directly.
