Wine Tasting in Jeruzalem: Discover the Undiscovered Wine Region in Slovenia
Jeruzalem in northeastern Slovenia is one of those places where nature has been extremely generous. Sun-drenched terraces, mineral-rich soils, and the perfect balance between warm days and cool nights have created conditions here that winemakers elsewhere only dream of. And once you step onto these sunny terraces overlooking endless vineyards, you understand why the Crusaders named it after the holy city in the 13th century. They simply couldn’t leave.
Today, Jeruzalem is one of the best and most undiscovered wine destinations in Europe.
Why is Jeruzalem One of the Best Wine Regions in Europe?
The Jeruzalem-Ljutomer-Ormož wine region lies in the Podravje wine-growing area, in the hilly landscape between the Mura and Drava rivers, at an altitude of around 341 meters. Viticulture here has a tradition dating back more than 2,400 years, long before the arrival of the Romans.
The secret of 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 fresh, aromatic white wines with distinct acidity and a long aging potential. The region is considered a true symphony of white wines. Here, you will discover varieties rarely found in such perfection elsewhere.
The absolute pride of this area is Šipon (Furmint). It is an indigenous variety with flavors of apples and pears, fresh acidity, and mineral tones. Alongside it, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rhine Riesling, Traminer, and many others thrive beautifully here.
Must-Visit Winemakers
Herga Wine Estate: The Soul of Jeruzalem in Every Sip
Herga Wine Estate (1) is one of the most exciting wine projects in the region. Behind the winery is Mitja Herga, an experienced enologist and former director and leading winemaker of one of Slovenia’s largest wineries. He decided to return to his roots and revive his ancestors’ heritage on the hills of Jeruzalem.
On the estate in Mihalovci, you will find a 200-year-old cellar with vaulted ceilings, where their most demanding wines rest in wooden barrels. Your tasting will be guided by Lenart, a former sommelier at a two-Michelin-star restaurant—friendly, professional, and full of enthusiasm for wine.
Herga offers both fresh wine lines (vibrant, aromatic, and mineral characters) and aged wines for serious enthusiasts. Their selection includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rhine Riesling, and of course—Šipon.
Book a tasting at Herga: herga.si
Puklavec Family Wines: A Multi-Generational Tradition
Puklavec Family Wines is one of the pillars of winemaking in this area. The story begins in 1934 when Martin Puklavec took over as secretary of the local wine cooperative in Ormož. Today, the winery is run by Vladimir Puklavec and his daughters Tatjana and Kristina, perfectly merging tradition with modern 21st-century approaches.
The winery is known for accessible, fruity, and fresh wines of high quality, which can be found on international markets under the brands Puklavec & Friends, Estate Selection, and Seven Numbers. On the Slovenian market, their recognizable brands are Jeruzalem Ormož and Ljutomerčan—classic blends of this area. A visit to the winery includes a tour of the modern processing cellar and a tasting of their globally award-winning wines.
More about Puklavec Family Wines: visitjeruzalem.com
Verus: Where Individual Vineyards Speak
Verus is a boutique winery often mentioned by wine lovers as one of the best in the region. Winemaker Danilo Šnajdar crafts wines with exceptional attention to individual vineyard sites—because, as he says himself: “One site gives body, another gives freshness.” The result is wines with a distinct identity that impress both beginners and experienced connoisseurs.
Vino Kupljen: Love and Sun in Every Bottle
Vino Kupljen is a family winery whose vineyards are cultivated in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. Their motto—”With Sun and Love”—is not just an empty phrase: the grapes are hand-picked, no SO₂ is added in the cellar, and they insist on processes that allow the wine to express its true character. The Kupljen estate in Jeruzalem is also a popular stop on the wine road, featuring a viewing terrace that offers panoramic sights stretching all the way to Croatia and Hungary.
Other Winemakers and Farms You Shouldn’t Miss
The region is rich in small producers and tourist farms. Along the wine road, you will also come across Jeruzalem Ormož (the historic cooperative with a premium selection), Zidanica Malek, and numerous tourist farms where wine is poured alongside homemade food and stunning vineyard views.
The Wine Safari With Us: The Best Way to Experience Jeruzalem
If you want to experience Jeruzalem in-depth, without worrying about logistics and navigation, join our Wine Safari. We will take you from winemaker to winemaker, explain the specifics of individual vineyard sites and varieties, and ensure you leave each stop with a smile (and perhaps a bottle or two).
The Wine Safari is ideal for:
Couples in search of a romantic experience
A group of friends looking for an unforgettable trip
Corporate team-building events
Wine lovers who want to truly get to know the region
Hitting the Wine Road by Bike: For the Independent Adventurer
Are you more of an independent spirit? Rent a bike with us and embark on the 40-kilometer-long Jeruzalem Wine Road yourself. This beautifully marked cycling route winds through vineyards, villages, and tourist farms. Experience Jeruzalem without a rushed schedule and make stops at your own discretion.
The route is suitable for recreational cyclists, and the views will reward you at every turn. We recommend setting out early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as you will be greeted by a very special light among the vineyards that is guaranteed to take your breath away.
Bike rental and information: Please ask at the reception.
What Else to Do in the Jeruzalem Region?
Wine tasting is just the beginning. Jeruzalem and its surroundings offer a wealth of experiences, regardless of the season.
Church of the Sorrowful Mother of God: The symbol of the village, dating back to 1652, overlooking the vineyards.
Ormož Castle: A Renaissance castle featuring a museum collection, located right next to the wine road.
Thermal Parks and Wellness: Nearby thermal baths offer the perfect relaxation after a long wine tour.
St. Martin’s Day (November): The traditional celebration of must turning into wine, featuring tastings and live music.
Grape Harvest (September/October): Experience the ancient, lively ritual of the grape harvest.
Jeruzalem Days (August): A vibrant mix of cultural programs, tastings, and culinary delights.
Which Varieties Must You Try?
When to Visit Jeruzalem?
Jeruzalem is stunning in every season:
Spring: Watch the vineyards and orchards bloom against a soft, green landscape.
Summer: Enjoy local festivals, alfresco tastings, and lush, full vineyards.
Autumn: The grape harvest, rich autumn foliage, and new wines make this the most magical time.
Winter: Embrace the peaceful silence of the snow-covered vineyards and enjoy a relaxing getaway in our spa center.
Our hotel is situated right in the middle of this viticultural paradise, which means that after all your tastings, you don’t have to worry about how you’ll get home. Wake up in the morning with a view of the vineyards, rent a bike or join the wine safari, relax in the afternoon by our pool overlooking Jeruzalem, and in the evening, treat yourself to a multi-course dinner with wine pairings as the sun sets.
Wine tasting in Jeruzalem is not just an activity. It is an experience you will carry with you forever.
