Vinska klet Kelenc

Northeastern Winery of Slovenia

Vinska klet Kelenc is nestled above the town of Lendava in the picturesque Lendavske Gorice, an area renowned for its rich viticultural history. This winery is situated in Slovenia's northeastern Prekmurje region, where the art of winemaking has flourished for centuries. Here, the fifth generation of the Kelenc family continues the legacy of crafting exceptional wines.

Bountiful Vineyards and Quality Harvests

Spanning 6 acres, the Kelenc vineyards boast 24,000 meticulously tended vines. The vineyard management employs both single-spar and double-spar pruning techniques, ensuring the vines are not overburdened. Handwork is prioritized for green maintenance, while machinery assists with spraying and mowing. The harvest, which lasts about three weeks, is conducted by hand, ensuring only the finest grapes are selected for processing. The white varieties include Welschriesling, Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Rhine Riesling, Yellow Muscat, Traminer, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Grigio, while the reds feature Pinot Noir, Blue Frankish, and Zweigelt. The modern, partially underground cellar provides optimal conditions for both fresh wines and the aging of more complex varieties, with a capacity exceeding 150,000 liters.

Traditional Vinification Techniques

At Vinska klet Kelenc, stainless steel tanks with cooling systems play a crucial role in the winemaking process. All wines undergo fermentation in these tanks, allowing for precise temperature control. Post-fermentation, wines are carefully sorted; some are kept in stainless steel, while others mature in wooden barrels. The winery is equipped with advanced technology for grape reception and processing, including a modern de-stalker and gentle presses that preserve the integrity of the grapes. This meticulous approach ensures the production of high-quality wines.

A Diverse Selection of Wines

The winery produces a variety of bottled wines, including single-variety whites, reds, and rosés, as well as special Cuvée blends. Each year, the team strives to capture the essence of the vintage while maintaining high quality. While the focus is primarily on dry wines, there are also delightful options with residual sugar. Each wine tells its own story, reflecting the unique landscape, the warmth of the sun, and a deep passion for winemaking.