Bizeljsko Sremič Wine Region

The Bizeljsko Sremi wine region, which is part of the greater Slovenian Posavje wine region, spans 861 hectares and produces superb wines that are well-known in Slovenia. The region has around 2200 grape farmers and over 150 wineries that constantly produce their famed white wines. The region's name was obtained by uniting two well-known wine villages. The region is a narrow strip of land along the Sava River's northern bank. The terrain is generally mountainous and hilly, which protects the area from the severe northern winds, making grape farming easier. Three of their wines are highly regarded in the international wine community including  Belokranjec, Cviček, and Metliska Crnina.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Bizeljsko Sremič!

Where is the Bizeljsko Sremič wine region?

The Bizeljsko Sremič wine area is located in southern Slovenia, bordering Croatia along the Savje river, a tributary of the Danube. This quaint wine sector is flanked to the west by Dolenjska, to the north by the Podravje wine region, and to the south by the Sotla River, which runs along the Croatian border. The region is one of three subregions of the Posavje wine region, the smallest wine region in Slovenia. The region is considered the best wine-growing area in the region. Bizeljsko Sremič wine region includes mountain ranges from Kumšperk to Laško and Zidani. The region is just 100km east of Ljubljana, the country’s capital, and 200km northeast of Rijeka, the most important harbor of Slovenia.

History of the Bizeljsko Sremič wine region

During the Middle Ages, the Romans inhabited the Bizeljsko Sremič region, as they did most of Europe. During the Middle Ages, the area was considered an important position, as indicated by the numerous castles and strongholds that have survived to this day. The arrival of Romans and the Catholic church increased the supply of wines in the area, motivating people to plant vineyards. The Romans invented viticulture and winemaking, which have been passed down through generations. Historical books discuss the wines and vineyards in the area. In 1880, the region was devastated by a Phyllexora infestation, which wiped out the wine industry.

The terroir and geography of the Bizeljsko Sremič wine region

The vines are grown on hills between 200 and 400 meters above sea level. Bizeljsko Sremi has a sub-Pannonian and continental climate, with comparatively moderate winters, rainy springs, and warm to hot summers. The region enjoys a high degree of rainfall. The soil in the region is primarily of three types: sandy, clayey, and marl. There are also some areas with quartz sands. The slopes along the Sava valley to the south and southwest are regarded as the best viticultural grounds in Posavje. Beautiful wine roads wind their way through the Posavje region.

Popular grape varieties from the Bizeljsko Sremič wine region

White grape varieties dominate the area in terms of production as well as cultivation volume. The most important white varieties are Laski Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Blanc. Modra Portugalka, Gamay, and Pinot Noir are significant red varieties. Other grapes cultivated in the Bizeljsko Sremič wine region are as follows:

Red grape varietals: Modri Pinot, Modra Frankinja, Pozne Trgatve, Suhi Jagodni Izbori , and Ledeno Vino.

White grape varietals: Sipon, Beli Pinot, Laski Riesling (Welsch Riesling), Zeleni Silvanec, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. 

Food to pair with Bizeljsko Sremič wine 

Chicken Parma

This savory meal, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmy, is one of Australia's most popular foods. Breadcrumbs coat the boneless chicken, which is then cooked in heated oil until golden brown. After that, the fried chicken is topped with cheese and tomato sauce before being thoroughly baked. Despite its name's resemblance to Italian culture, the dish originated in America. 

Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Haddock

This simple and satisfying supper is among the most popular in the Mediterranean region. The haddock is a distinct saltwater ray-finned fish that can satisfy fish skeptics. The haddock is marinated in Mediterranean spices before being cooked in a skillet with lemon garlic sauce, shallots, and artichoke hearts for only 4-5 minutes. The flavor is delicious, easygoing, and light. This one-of-a-kind Mediterranean cuisine pairs nicely with balanced Bizeljsko Sremič wines.

Fish and Chips

A popular hearty and soothing food is fish and chips. The meal originated in the United Kingdom and is now popular throughout the world. White fish fillets, notably cod, haddock, and flounder, are the star of the dish. Fish and chips are regarded as the national dish of the United Kingdom and have been associated with it for a long time. The dish was reported to have originated in the 1860s and had risen to prominence by 1910. To make this delectable dish, first, coat the fresh fish fillet in batter before cooking it in high oil or lard with potatoes. The batter is frequently made out of eggs, milk, and flour. According to legend, the dish is a mash-up of English and Jewish cultures. The entrée is presented on butter paper with a layer of newspaper on top. This delectable dish complements white wines from Bizeljsko Sremič.

Places to visit in the Bizeljsko Sremič wine region

Bizeljsko Castle

The charming Bizeljsko Castle sits atop a rocky hill just above Bizeljka Vas, a village in Brežice. The castle has a long and interesting history which was also mentioned in a document dated 1404. The castle served as an important defensive line as it stood on a strategic point for numerous noble families. The castle belonged to the Tattenbach and Windisch-Graetz families until it was nationalized during mid 20th century. The castle was built in medieval style revealing renaissance and baroque features. The rectangular courtyard in the center is surrounded by four-storey wings which is the major attraction of the castle. The castle still has the oldest parts dating back to the 14th century. The castle underwent many reconstructions over centuries and is one of the most preserved castles in Slovenia. 

Rajhenburg Castle

Rajhenburg Castle is perched on top of a rocky hill overlooking the stream and Sava river. The castle is one of the most important medieval monuments in Slovenia. The structure dates back to 1131 to 1147 and was built by Konrad, Archbishop of  Salzburg. The castle was managed by ministerial knights for centuries. The castle was converted into a monastery in 1881 after its acquisition by Trappist monks. The castle was sieged by German forces in 1941 for resettlement for the deportation of Slovenes. Rajhenburg Castle was nationalized in 1978 and served as a prison for several years. In 1968, the castle held an exhibition of exiles and since then the castle is home to museums and galleries hosting several events annually. 

Frequently asked questions about Bizeljsko Sremič