Wines Štajerska Slovenia Familija Estate- Domacija Brodnjak - Sauvignon Blanc Veliki vrh - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The Familija Estate- Domacija Brodnjak Sauvignon Blanc Veliki vrh 2023 from the esteemed Podravje region of Štajerska Slovenija presents itself as a fine example of modern Slovenian white winemaking. Crafted exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc, this wine captures the variety’s best expressions with a vibrant bouquet marked by notes of freshly cut grass, gooseberry, elderflower and a hint of citrus zest. The 2023 vintage enjoyed a relatively cool and balanced growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly, preserving their lively acidity and aromatic freshness. The “Veliki vrh” parcel is known for its slightly elevated aspect, receiving abundant sunlight yet benefiting from night-time cooling, all of which accentuate the clarity and typicity of Sauvignon Blanc. Vinification methods here remain true to tradition, with gentle pressing, cool fermentation, and strictly controlled maturation in stainless steel tanks to retain the aromatic purity and lively texture of the wine.

Štajerska Slovenija, nestled in the far northeast of Slovenia, is the country’s largest wine-growing region and is strongly influenced by Alpine and Pannonian climates. This results in warm days and cool nights, perfect for developing both ripeness and freshness in white varieties. The soils are varied, with marl, clay, and calcareous layers that lend the wines a fine mineral backbone. Viticulture here dates back to Roman times, and the region is today gaining wider international recognition for its sophisticated, terroir-driven whites.

The zesty, aromatic profile of this Sauvignon Blanc pursues wonderfully with classic pairings such as freshly shucked oysters or citrus-marinated prawns. Its lively acidity and herbal character make it a natural partner for salads with goat’s cheese, asparagus risotto, or even the local Slovenian dish 'štruklji' with herbed cottage cheese. For a regional treat, enjoy with baked river trout garnished with dill and lemon.

To appreciate all its nuances, serve this wine well chilled, ideally between 8 and 10°C. Pour gently into medium-sized white wine glasses to allow the aromas to unfold and enjoy within the next two to three years while its youthful vibrancy and aromatic precision are at their peak.