Dorcha

About the Winemaker

Dorcha

Nestled in Ritoznoj, Štajerska, Dorcha embodies Izidor (Dorcha) Vehovar's innovative spirit as the third generation in his family's winemaking legacy. Embracing a fresh perspective, he charts a new, more approachable course. Eschewing conventional norms, Izidor follows the local tradition of crafting pure, vibrant wines. Inspired by insights from his neighbor Nick Gee of Heaps Good Wine Co., he infuses his family's tradition with modern flair, creating captivating wines naturally. Izidor, a dedicated yet unassuming winemaker, roams the wooded mountains of Pohorje, communing with nature and gathering local mushrooms, a specialty of NE Slovenia. In his cellar, he meticulously tends to his salumi and cured meats, a testament to his passion for artisanal craftsmanship. - Vinum

dorcha-winemaker

The Region

Stajerska, Slovenia

Stajerska, located in the northeastern part of Slovenia, is a region with a rich winemaking heritage that is increasingly embracing natural winemaking practices. Situated between the Pohorje Mountains and the Drava River, Stajerska benefits from a continental climate and diverse terroir, making it ideal for cultivating indigenous grape varieties such as Šipon (Furmint), Žametovka, and Ranina. Winemakers here are dedicated to sustainable viticulture, employing organic and biodynamic farming methods to nurture the vines and preserve the health of the land. In the cellar, minimal intervention is paramount, with spontaneous fermentations and aging in neutral vessels allowing the true expression of the grapes and terroir to shine through. The resulting natural wines from Stajerska are a reflection of the region's pristine beauty and rich winemaking tradition, with their vibrant flavors, elegant textures, and a sense of place that captures the essence of Slovenia's picturesque countryside.