Goriska Brda is the northern sub-region of the Primorski wine region in western Slovenia, named after the two towns around which it is formed; Goriska and Brda. However, after the political upheavals of the early 20th century Goriska found itself on the Italian side of the new Italy-Slovenia border, and is now known as Gorizia (as in Collio Goriziano). Although the border technically divides the town in two, the key vineyard areas are all on the western, Italian side of the border, where Slovenian wine is no longer made. Today, Goriska Brda is technically just Brda.
Located at the foot of the Julian Alps, Brda finds itself wedged between snow-capped mountain peaks and sun-baked Adriatic coastline. The name Brda translates literally as 'hills', and the area fits snugly around the sub-alpine topography here. Just 45 miles (72km) separate the highest peak of the alps, the 9400ft (2864m) Triglav, from Montefalco on the Gulf of Trieste. Located half-way between the two, Brda experiences the climatic effects of each.
From November through April, the biting Bora winds descend from the mountains, with strong gusts (up to 125 mph/200km/h) of cold alpine air whipping down from the north-east. This poses viticultural risks, particularly if the Bora season stretches beyond budburst. Fortunately, this only occurs rarely. Brda vineyards typically enjoy a warm environment, freshened by winds from either the sea or the Alps. Rainfall is higher here than on the coast, thanks to Brda's proximity to the sea.
The local geology means that the soils around Brda are mostly the product of orological erosion. Well-drained shale, marl and sandstone are common, and form often loosely-knit soils, making terracing necessary in many areas.
Brda is best known for red wines from Teran (the local name for Refosco) and Barbera, long established in this region, but also French imports such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Berry-scented Pinot Noir (Modri Pinot or even Modri Burgundec here) is a successful red wine style emerging from Brda. White wines are also made, here and in a distinctively fresh, crisp style reminiscent of the dry whites made in northern Italy. Pinot Blanc and the local varieties Tokaj (Tai) and Rebula (Ribolla) are the most commonly used – the latter two are used to make the popular dry white blend known as Brisko vino. Sweet white dessert wines are also made in this area, often in the style of Ramandolo, from the Colli Oriental just across the border.
