Kras Wine Region

Kras, also known as Karst or Carso, is a unique wine-growing area in the Primorski wine region. The region has been making wine for centuries and is mostly known for Teran, a red wine. The topology of Kras is quite unique with a high amount of rocks and limestone. The Karst plateau, just above the bay of Trieste, has a thin layer of reddish brown soil with ample sun over the year. Grapes like Refosco and Teran thrive in the region which is regarded as Slovenia’s best. The region is home to more than 170 wine producers all clustered in the Kras wine road. 

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Kras!

Where is the Kras wine region?

Kras wine region is located in western Slovenia sharing the border between Italy and Slovenia. The region is unique with its limestone plateau and is popular amongst geologists more than among Oenologists. The Kras wine region is the smallest in the Primorski wine region. The region is bounded by Italian Carso DOC to the west, Trieste to the south, Julian mountain ranges to the southwest, and Vipava Valley to the east. The Sezana is the major town in the Kras. The region host an annual Feast of Teran and Prosciutto in the town of Dutovlje. The region has an overwhelming number of vineyards and cellars as well as some breathtaking sights along the way.

The terroir and geography of the Kras wine region

The terroir and geography of the Kras wine region gave the term “Krast Phenomena” for its unique formation of landscape due to the dissolution of soluble rocks as limestone. The soil here is mostly decayed limestone that is rich in Iron giving its signature color, red. These soils have a lot of benefits for viticulture including good drainage and high nutrients. Kras region has the Mediterranean, alpine, and continental influence. The region sometimes gets frost but doesn't stay for a long period. Kras also has to face Burja, harsh wind from the north, which challenges wine growing. 

Popular grape varieties from the Kras wine region

Over 75% of vineyard in the Kras wine region is planted with Refosco. Refosco is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.  The wine region is famous for Teral wine which is produced from 100% Refosco. Teran wine is characterized by deep ruby color with low alcohol and high acidity. These wines are popular among locals as well as the international wine community. The Kras wine region also produces dry white and sparkling wines. Other grape varietals grown in the Kras wine region are as follows:

Red Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Refosco, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Syrah.

White Varietals: Chardonnay, Malvasia, Istarska, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Vitovska Grganja, Glera, Klarnica, Peregolin, Picolit, Pinela, Poljsakica, Prosecco, Ribolla Gialla, Sauvignanasse, and Welchriesling.

Food to pair with Kras wine 

Lemon Chicken

Lemon Chicken is a popular meal all over the world. The main ingredients are, as the name suggests, lemon and chicken. Chicken, soy sauce, lemon juice and zest, sesame oil, ginger, cornflour, scallions, and sugar are common ingredients. In a wok, brown the chicken on both sides before tossing it with ginger and lemon juice. Once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook until the chicken is done. This Asian cuisine pairs wonderfully with the Kras wines.

Barbecue

Barbecue is most commonly associated with an outdoor social event in which meats or fish, together with vegetables, are cooked over a wood or charcoal fire with the lid closed.

Barbecuing has long been a part of American culture and is often appreciated during celebrations and social gatherings around the country. BBQ is frequently served with sauce, salad, sweet potato, and beans. Pork and beef are the most popular meats. Other barbecued dishes include lamb, chicken, sausages, and even shellfish.

Combine with the robust Refosco red wines of the Kras wine area.

California-style pizza

Pizza spread throughout the world, beginning in Italy, with many variations in toppings and cooking methods. Pizza is a round flat crust with tomato sauce and toppings such as cheese, meat, olive oil, herbs, sausages, and whatever else you like. Originally baked in firewood ovens, this delicacy is usually baked in high-temperature ovens. Because of the usage of herbs such as basil and oregano, pizza is extremely fragrant.

The earthiness of Kras Refosco complements the flavor of herbs on pizza. Teran wines are medium-bodied and strongly acidic, which matches the acidic sauce on the pizza and the meat.

Places to visit in the Kras wine region

Sežana Botanical Garden

This amazing botanical garden is located in the heart of Sezana near Villa Mirassaso. The garden manages to reflect the ancient time, great wealth, and extraordinary work. This Italian city garden was built neatly with beauty in mind. The garden was said to be founded in 1848 by the Scaramanga family from Trieste. The garden houses more than 700 plant species and numerous statues of historical and cultural value. The garden also offers guided tours where you can embrace the beauty of this amazing garden. 

Karst Living Museum

Karst Living Museum is a walking trail in Sezana which is considered Slovenia’s best thematic trail. This museum is based on an open museum spread across 700 hectares that reveals Karst features. This single place is able to demonstrate the Karst phenomena including dolines, collapse dolines, depressions, limestone pavements, and underground caves. The museum promotes the natural and cultural heritage of the traditional Karst and is considered one of the important areas in Slovenia. This preserved area stretches from Sezana, Lipica to the Italian border. 

Frequently asked questions about Kras