Uroš Klabjan

Uroš Klabjan is a distinguished natural winemaker based in the Slovenian Istria region, near the village of Osp, approximately 3 km from the Adriatic Sea. His vineyards, situated at elevations ranging from 45 to 120 meters above sea level, benefit from a unique microclimate influenced by the Burja wind, which moderates temperatures and extends the growing season. The soils are a mix of limestone from the north and marl from the east, providing a diverse terroir that contributes to the complexity of his wines.

🍇 Vineyard & Terroir

Uroš's vineyards encompass approximately 10 hectares, with around 60,000 vines, many of which are ungrafted and predate the phylloxera epidemic. The primary grape varieties cultivated include Malvasia (Malvazija), Refosco (Refošk), and Muscat Giallo (Hrastovlje biotype), alongside smaller plantings of Pinot Grigio and Merlot. The vineyard's location in a funnel-shaped valley near the Karst hill further enhances the unique terroir.

🌿 Organic & Biodynamic Practices

Uroš Klabjan adheres to organic and biodynamic farming principles, though he does not seek official certifications due to the small scale of his production. He emphasizes minimal intervention both in the vineyard and the cellar, allowing the natural environment to shape the wines. Farming practices include dry farming without irrigation, even during hot vintages, and the use of horses for fertilization. Indigenous grass species are planted between the vines to aerate the soil. In the cellar, fermentation occurs spontaneously with wild yeasts, and wines are typically bottled without added sulfites. Skin maceration is employed to initiate fermentation, and wines are unfiltered, reflecting a hands-off approach to winemaking.

🍷 Notable Wines

Uroš Klabjan produces a range of wines that showcase the distinct characteristics of the Slovenian Istrian terroir:

• Malvasia (White Label): A white wine made from the Malvasia grape, offering a surprisingly high level of acidity and a shorter maceration period.

• Malvasia (Black Label): A more structured wine from older vines, aged in oak barrels, providing a fuller expression of the variety.

• Refošk (White Label): An autochthonous red variety from the Primorska region, known for its extracted character and vibrant flavors.

• Refošk (Black Label): A more intense version from older vines, offering depth and complexity.

• Dolansky: An orange wine made from Muscat Giallo (Hrastovlje biotype), showcasing the traditional skin-contact winemaking method.

• Àyra: A sparkling wine produced from the Mauzac grape, highlighting the region's potential for quality sparkling wines.

🧪 Winemaking Philosophy

Uroš Klabjan believes that great wine is made in the vineyard, not in the cellar. His philosophy centers on respecting the natural environment and allowing the grapes to express their true character. By embracing traditional winemaking techniques and focusing on organic and biodynamic practices, Uroš produces wines that are authentic reflections of the Slovenian Istrian terroir.