Matej Švara

Matej Švara is an independent winemaker from Slovenia's Karst region, renowned for his commitment to natural and biodynamic viticulture. Operating on a modest 1.5-hectare estate, Švara produces wines that are deeply expressive of their terroir, focusing on purity and minimal intervention.

🍇 Vineyard & Terroir

Švara's vineyards are situated in Komen, within the Karst region, characterized by its unique Terra Rossa soils—a blend of clay and sandstone. The vines, aged between 35 and 60 years, are cultivated at elevations just above sea level, benefiting from southeast exposures that enhance ripening. The estate practices organic farming, with manual labor and minimal intervention, including the use of natural sprays derived from brown algae and sulfur .

🍷 Winemaking Philosophy

Švara adheres to a cosmo-cultural approach to winemaking, aligning his practices with the biodynamic calendar. He employs spontaneous fermentation using indigenous yeasts, with maceration left to nature and no temperature control. His wines are unfiltered and contain minimal sulfur additions, typically between 2 to 4 mg free sulfur and up to 10 mg total sulfur.

Notably, Švara opts for aging his wines in glass vessels (damigianas) rather than traditional wooden barrels, allowing for a purer expression of the fruit and terroir. This method contributes to the unique character of his wines, emphasizing clarity and freshness .

🍷 Notable Wines

• Vitovska 2021: This orange wine undergoes 12 days of maceration in open vats, followed by fermentation in 54-liter glass vessels. It presents a seductive straw color with golden tones, offering aromas of peach and meadow herbs, and a mineral taste with extraordinary freshness .

• Malvazija: A white wine known for its expressive character, showcasing the purity and minerality typical of the Karst region.

• Teran: A red wine that reflects the unique qualities of the Karst terroir, with a focus on freshness and authenticity.

🏡 Wine Tourism & Gastronomy

While Švara's estate is not widely known for wine tourism, his wines are available through various online retailers, allowing enthusiasts to experience his distinctive approach to winemaking. His background as a chef informs his appreciation for wines that pair well with rich, flavorful cuisine, enhancing the dining experience