May 2020
Expect to be Pampered. All Year Round
The Vipava Valley will delight you with its flavours
At a time when the pandemic has slowed us all down, we've become even more aware that abundance is not a given. The things that bring us joy are truly precious, and in the Vipava Valley they've had a rich tradition. It is felt on every step, tasted on each plate, discovered in every glass. When these difficult times pass and it's travelling season again, finally, we'll be expecting you with a smile and a wealth of genuine dishes, cherished for centuries in the Vipava Valley.
5 culinary-wine reasons to visit the Vipava Valley
Look ahead and imagine, the time of adventure is near! The Vipava Valley will be ready when you need open space, peace and hospitality. We're expecting you with our unique qualities and genuine flavours. To help make up your mind, here are five of the most convincing wine & food reasons to visit our heavenly valley:
- locally sourced ingredients
The Vipava Valley has long been known for its abundance and diversity of produce. Here, you'll find the season's first cherries and delicious fruit, premium asparagus and garden-fresh vegetables … Most of the foods used in the local dishes are grown on the spot, in wholesome and natural ways.
- extraordinary wines
The reputation of outstanding Vipava Valley wines is certainly no flash in the pan. Centuries of tradition, small cellars and focus on premium quality are a winning combination that has propelled the boutique wines of the Vipava Valley to the global peak. Don't overlook the old indigenous varieties, found here and nowhere else in the world.
- local and haute cuisine
Expect only the best in the Vipava Valley, where distinguished chefs offer the exploration of premium cuisine, the restaurants feature a selection of choice local dishes, and the agritourism farms a wealth of natural home foods. Every season, new experiences are on the plate!
- culinary specialties
Not just genuine, in the Vipava Valley many things are special, too. Gourmet pampering begins with a slice of dried Vipava Valley prosciutto, whereas traditional vegetable soups start the course for characteristic Vipava Valley dishes. Most famous among these is the jota stew, offered throughout the year despite its seasonal character.
- Vipava Valley hospitality
You'll be greeted with a smile here, naturally, and widely open arms. The valley's winemakers will personally introduce you to their outstanding wines; our tastings are in a class of their own. In the restaurants, too, expect a highly personal friendly approach. More unforgettable experiences come in the form of wine and culinary guided tours with the local guides.
A tradition of homemade bread
In the past centuries, when numerous mills were operating by the rivers and streams of the Vipava Valley, baking developed into a staple local activity. Though Ajdovščina is now home to the nation's largest bakery, its bread-making folklore has been dormant for decades – till now. Since wholesome artisanal foods are again highly appreciated, the Vipava Valley has been reviving its nearly forgotten tradition of preparing home bread and pastry. In the framework of a special project working to revitalize the local milling and baking heritage, one of the rediscovered treasures was the recipe for the historic favourite Ajdovščina sweet bun, perfect as part of a healthy and delicious breakfast. The traditional sweet bun is on its way to the local stores, while already appearing in a video alongside charming views of the Vipava Valley, inviting guests to the tasting of local treats.
Flavours of the Vipava Valley, this time differently
The traditional Flavours of the Vipava Valley culinary festival with its overview of the wine and culinary offer of the Vipava Valley was scheduled to run in mid-May, like each year. Its centrepiece is usually the marvellous Zemono Manor House, where the Restaurant Pri Lojzetu is ran by the internationally acclaimed chef Tomaž Kavčič. Like all other activities, the festival dedicated to the creators of the Vipava Valley's unique flavours is cancelled due to the epidemic, but it's already preparing a grand return next spring, refreshed and better than ever. Good news is also heard from the Zemono Manor, where its famous restaurant Pri Lojzetu just received the Green Key eco-label of sustainability, adding more spark to the green story of sustainable tourism in the Vipava Valley.
