Goriška Brda Wine Region Guide

The Goriska Brda wine region is located in Western Slovenia and is separated from other wine regions. Because of the similarities in hilltop villages, orchards, cypress trees, and rolling hills, the region is often referred to as Slovenia's Tuscany. The terrain is largely rocky, with mountain ranges around it. The wine tradition in the Goriska Brda is deeply rooted in Italy, as the wine area was divided by a national boundary during the twentieth century. This region's wines and cuisine are remarkably similar to those found in Italy. The region's name was taken from the names of the two wine towns. Goriska Brda is technically just Brda because wine is no longer manufactured in Goriska Brda.

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Where is the Goriska Brda wine region?

This remote wine region is located on the middle western border of Slovenia and Italy. The wine region of Goriska Brda is part of the broader Primorski wine region. Brda is on the Italian side, whereas Goriska is on the Slovenian side. The region encompasses an area located at the foothills of the Julian Alps, between the snow-capped high peaks to the east and north, and the Adriatic coast. Don't be deceived by its small size; it is one of Slovenia's tiniest wine districts. Every drop of wine reflects the region's emphasis on quality above quantity.

History of the Goriska Brda wine region

The wine region of Goriska Brda has a long and rich history. The viticulture and winemaking traditions trace back to ancient times and have earned a notable place in the wine community. Even during the reign of the Celts and Illyrians, the region was part of one of the world's oldest wine-producing cultures. The region is located right on the border between Italy and Slovenia. During the twentieth-century political upheavals, the Goriska was assigned to the Italian side, while Brda was assigned to the Slovenian side. Klet Brda, Slovenia's largest wine cellar, is also located in the region.

The terroir and geography of the Goriska Brda wine region

The Goriska Brda wine region's geography is largely mountainous, with magnificent rolling green hills. The location is literally trapped between east and north mountain peaks and the Adriatic Sea. During November, the bitingly cold Bora winds lash down from the slopes, endangering the vines. The location is typically warm, with fresh winds from the sea or the alps. Rainfall is higher in the Goriska Brda wine region than along the coast. The soil is primarily shale, marl, and sandstone, all of which drain well. The vineyard on the hills is frequently terraced for convenience.

Popular grape varieties from the Goriska Brda wine region

Rebula, locally known as Ribolla or Ribuila, is the most important red grape variety in the Brda region accounting for around 25% of total wine production, and has been in Slovenia for over 750 years. Tokaj, Rebula, Pinot Grigio, Refosco. Other international grapes are also widely cultivated including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir.

Food to pair with Goriska Brda wine 

Frtalja

The traditional Slovenian dish Frtalja is renowned in Primorska cuisine. It is a savoury egg-based delicacy, made with beaten eggs, flour, herbs, vegetables, salt and cured meat. It's important to use fresh herbs as they make this dish aromatic and extremely flavourful. Frtalja should be cooked in a high-rimmed pan, flipping it until both sides are golden brown. It's recommended to savour it with a glass of wine and ideally with a yogurt dip on the side to bring out its flavour even more.

Fižolova mineštra - Bean stew

Fižolova mineštra is an authentic Slovenian meal that is prepared using a variety of ingredients like beans, pasta, onions, garlic, parsley, celery, bay leaves, paprika powder, olive oil and tomatoes. This simple yet delicious stew dish is sure to delight your taste buds. To maximize the taste, one part of beans is blended as a purée while the another part is cooked with other ingredients. Simmer it until boiling before adding in pasta and seasoning with paprika powder and tomato sauce. Once ready, fižolova mineštra is usually served in deep plates with fresh bread on the side and optionally with a glass of red wine.

Bakalca

A staple in Slovenian cooking, Bakalca is a hearty and flavourful stew made with mutton or beef, onions, carrots, white wine, tomatoes, olive oil and herbs such as bay leaves and thyme. All the ingredients are cooked slowly in a pot until the meat and vegetables become soft and tender. This dish is great to pair with your preferred wine from the Goriska Brda wine region.

Places to visit in the Goriska Brda wine region

Šmartno

Šmartno is a charming walled town in the municipality of Brda in Slovenia's Littoral area. The settlement is a cultural heritage landmark and one of the most important locations in the Goriska Brda region. The entire settlement was walled during the medieval period and sits atop a hill overlooking Brda. The fortified hamlet and watchtowers were erected to withstand Turkish and Venetian assaults. The village is modest, yet every detail is lovely, and the Briska home is a must-see.

Dobrovo

Located in a secluded area, Dobrovo is an interesting castle built during the early 17th century on the foundations of an older structure. The castle is an almost perfect square and four square turrets surround each corner. The castle houses art galleries and a museum. The chapel in the castle is dedicated to Saint Anthon of Padua. The castle held the festival of Cherries in Dobrovo castle every first week of June. The castle has been long owned by the Colloredo family until the end of the 18th century. The castle is open to the public since 1991 after Slovenia received its independence. The Castle houses the Gorica Museum and was open since 1979. 

Frequently asked questions about Goriska Brda