Božidar Zorjan

Natural Wines from Pohorje, Slovenia

Božidar Zorjan, alongside his wife Marija, operates a biodynamic winery in the Pohorje region of Slovenia, near Tinjska Gora. Their estate spans approximately 4 hectares, situated on volcanic soils at the edge of the Pohorje primeval forest. Božidar transitioned from a career in law enforcement to winemaking in the 1980s, initially producing wine in amphorae. By 1995, he fully embraced natural winemaking, focusing on biodynamic principles and integrating livestock, such as deer and geese, into their farm to enhance biodiversity and soil health. Their cellar, dating back over 400 years and once part of a Carthusian monastery, is used for aging wines in amphorae and oak barrels.

🌿 Philosophy & Practices

Zorjan's winemaking philosophy centers on minimal intervention and a deep connection to the land. The estate is certified biodynamic by Demeter, emphasizing organic farming, composting, and herbal treatments. Grapes are hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Wines are aged in amphorae buried on the property, allowing natural processes to shape their character. The estate's holistic approach includes integrating animals and growing their own produce, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and authenticity.

🍷 Notable Wines

• Dolium Muskat Ottonel: A standout orange wine fermented in amphorae for one year, followed by aging in amphorae and oak barrels. Praised for its elegant texture and complex flavors, it has been recognized among the best orange wines globally.

• Renski Rizling (Riesling): A white wine showcasing the varietal's purity and expression of the terroir.

• Laški Rizling (Welschriesling): Known for its crisp acidity and mineral notes, reflecting the estate's volcanic soils.

• Zweigelt: A red wine offering a rich taste, distinctive within the Slovenian wine landscape.

• • Cuvée White: A blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscat Ottonel, crafted to express the harmony of these varietals