Jeruzalem, in northeastern Slovenia, is one of those places where nature has been exceptionally generous. Sun-drenched terraces, mineral-rich soil, and a perfect balance between warm days and cool nights have created conditions here that winemakers elsewhere can only dream of. And once you step onto these sunny terraces overlooking endless vineyards, you understand why the Crusaders in the 13th century named it after the Holy City. They simply couldn’t bring themselves to leave.
Jerusalem is one of the best and least-known wine destinations in Europe today.
Why is Jerusalem one of the best wine regions in Europe?
The Jeruzalem-Ljutomer-Ormož wine region is located in the Podravje wine-growing region, in the hilly landscape between the Mura and Drava rivers, at an elevation of about 341 meters. Winegrowing here has a tradition dating back more than 2,400 years, long before the arrival of the Romans.
The secret to these exceptional wines lies in the unique terroir: sunny slopes with a mild Pannonian climate, cool nights, and mineral-rich soils create the perfect conditions for a fresh, aromatic white wine with pronounced acidity and long aging potential. The region is considered a true symphony of white wines. Here you’ll discover grape varieties that are rarely found elsewhere with such perfection.
The pride of this region is Šipon (Furmint). It is an indigenous variety with flavors of apples and pears, fresh acidity, and mineral notes. In addition, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rhine Riesling, Traminer, and many others thrive here.
Wine Tasting – Winemakers You Must Visit
Herga Wine Estate – The Soul of Jerusalem in Every Sip
Herga Wine Estate is one of the most interesting wine projects in the region. Behind the winery is Mitja Herga, an experienced oenologist and former director and head winemaker at one of Slovenia’s largest wineries, who decided to return to his roots and revive the legacy of his ancestors on the hills of Jeruzalem.
At the estate in Mihalovci, you’ll find a 200-year-old cellar with vaulted ceilings, where their finest wines rest in wooden barrels. Lenart, a former sommelier at a two-Michelin-star restaurant—friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about wine—will lead the tasting.
Herga offers both fresh wines (with vibrant, aromatic, and mineral characteristics) and aged wines for serious connoisseurs. The selection includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rhine Riesling, and, of course, Šipon.
Puklavec Family Wines – A tradition that has been passed down through generations
Puklavec Family Wines is one of the pillars of winemaking in this region. The story begins in 1934, when Martin Puklavec took over as secretary of the wine cooperative in Ormož at that time. Today, the winery is run by Vladimir Puklavec and his daughters Tatjana and Kristina, who blend tradition with modern 21st-century approaches.
The winery is known for its affordable, fruity, and fresh high-quality wines, which are available on international markets under the brand names Puklavec & Friends, Estate Selection, and Seven Numbers. On the Slovenian market, the well-known brands are Jeruzalem Ormož and Ljutomerčan —classic blends from this region.
A visit to the winery includes a tour of the modern processing facility and a tasting of wines that have won awards around the world.
Verus – Where Individual Positions Speak
Verus is a boutique winery that wine lovers often cite as one of the best in the region. Winemaker Danilo Šnajdar crafts wines with exceptional attention to individual vineyard sites—because, as he says, “one site gives body, another gives freshness.” The result is wines with a distinct identity that delight both beginners and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
Kupljen Wine – Love and Sunshine in Every Bottle
Kupljen Winery is a family-run winery with vineyards cultivated in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. Their motto—“With Sun and Love”—is no empty phrase: they harvest the grapes by hand, add no SO₂ in the cellar, and adhere to processes that allow the wine to express its true character. The Kupljen farm in Jerusalem is also a popular stop on the wine route, where the panoramic terrace offers views all the way to Croatia and Hungary.
Other winemakers and farms you shouldn’t miss
The region is home to many small-scale producers and agritourism farms. Along the wine route, you’ll also come across Jeruzalem Ormož (a historic cooperative with a premium selection), Zidanica Malek, and numerous agritourism farms where wine is served alongside homemade food and views of the vineyards.
Wine Safari with Hotel Sibon—the best way to experience Jerusalem
If you want to experience Jerusalem in a truly immersive way, without worrying about logistics or navigation, join our wine safari. We’ll take you from winery to winery, explain the unique characteristics of each vineyard and grape variety, and make sure you leave every stop with a smile (and maybe a bottle or two).
A wine safari is ideal for:
- couples looking for a romantic experience
- a group of friends for an unforgettable trip
- corporate team-building events
- wine lovers who want to truly get to know the region
Cycling Along the Wine Route – For Those Who Like to Set Out on Their Own Adventures
Are you more of an independent spirit? Rent a bike from us and set out on your own along the 40-km-long Jeruzalem Wine Route. This well-marked bike trail winds through vineyards, villages, and tourist farms. Experience Jeruzalem without a tight schedule and stop whenever you like.
The route is suitable for recreational cyclists, and the view rewards you at every turn. We recommend setting out early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as that’s when a very special light awaits you among the vineyards—one that we guarantee will take your breath away.
*Bicycle rentals and information: ask at the front desk
What else is there to do in the Jerusalem region?
Wine tasting is just the beginning. Jerusalem and its surroundings offer a wealth of experiences, no matter what time of year you visit.
- Church of Our Lady of Sorrows – a symbol of the village dating from 1652, with a view of the vineyards
- Ormož Castle – a Renaissance castle with a museum collection right off the wine route
- Thermal Parks and Wellness – There are thermal baths nearby for the perfect way to unwind after a wine tour
- Martinovanje (November) – a celebration of the transformation of grape must into wine, featuring tastings and music
- Grape Harvest (September/October) – Experience the ancient ritual of the grape harvest
- Jerusalem Days (August) – cultural program, tastings, and cuisine
Which varieties should you try?
| Variety | Character |
| Šipon (Furmint) | Apples, pears, minerals—the pride of the region |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Fresh, grassy, with a hint of tropical fruit |
| Chardonnay | Rich, well-rounded, with nice acidity |
| Pinot Gris | Aromatic, full-bodied, with golden hues |
| Rhenish Riesling | Elegant, with mineral notes and a long finish |
| Traminec | Fragrant, exotic—an unforgettable variety for lovers of aromatic wines |
When is the best time to visit Jerusalem?
Jerusalem is beautiful in every season:
- Spring: Vineyards and orchards in bloom, a lush green landscape
- Summer: Festivals, outdoor tastings, vineyards in full bloom
- Fall: The grape harvest, the colors of the leaves, new wines— the most magical time of year
- Winter: Tranquility among the snow-covered vineyards and relaxation at our spa center
Hotel Sibon is nestled in the heart of this wine-growing paradise, which means you don’t have to worry about how you’ll get home after all those wine tastings. Wake up in the morning to a view of the vineyards, rent a bike, or join a wine safari; in the afternoon, relax by our pool overlooking Jerusalem, and in the evening, as the sun sets, treat yourself to a multi-course dinner paired with wine.
Wine tasting in Jerusalem isn’t just an activity. It’s an experience you’ll carry with you.
