Wine Season 2024 in Slovenia

The culture of wine and winemaking has been ongoing in the territory of Slovenia since the time of the Celts, a long time before it appeared in the lands of France and Spain.

Each year the more than 28,000 wineries of Slovenia produce over 80 million litres of wine, only a few percent of which is exported while the rest is consumed inside the country. So, while you're in Slovenia, don't hesitate to visit at least a few of its wineries to try the unique wines you won't be able to find anywhere else.

Top Wine Regions

There are three main wine-producing regions in the country—Littoral, Lower Sava, and Drava. Being important for the country, wine has a lot of festivals and holidays, which mostly happen in Spring and Autumn.

Wine Festivals and Traditions

The Old Vine Festival

The Old Vine Festival is Slovenia's premier wine and culinary event, honoring the world's oldest vine. This festival blends wine and food with culture and entertainment, celebrating the Old Vine that grows in Lent, the historic heart of Maribor. As a symbol of pride for Maribor, Styria, and Slovenia, the Old Vine represents the area's rich wine tradition and the success of local winegrowers. This year, The Old Vine Festival will take place on September 26-29.

St Martin's Day

Throughout Slovenia, especially in its renowned wine-producing regions, this holiday is celebrated with great enthusiasm on November 11. The streets and vineyards become bustling with activity as locals and tourists alike flock to enjoy the festivities. Visitors have the opportunity to taste a wide array of local wines, alongside a rich selection of regional products. The event transforms the area into a lively celebration of Slovenian culture and culinary traditions, offering a memorable experience for all who attend.

The Festival of Sparkling Wine

The Festival of Sparkling Wine in Portorož, held at the end of December, offers a chance to sample some of the finest sparkling wines from Slovenia and neighboring countries. In 2023, the Kempinski Palace Hotel hosted the 10th edition of this festival, showcasing top sparkling wines and champagnes from around 30 winemakers, including those from France's Champagne region. Guests at the festival can choose from over a hundred sparkling wine samples, including white, red, and rosé varieties, crafted using either the Classic or Charmat Method.