Is Izola/Isola worth visiting?

Absolutely. Izola/Isola is an old Mediterranean town on the Slovenian coast of the northern Adriatic. It has a long history and was once an island (isola). It was known for wine and olive oil production already in Antiquity, and its wines were appreciated in Venice, which left an important mark on the town’s architecture and culture. Over the past decade and a half, Izola has become internationally recognised for the established wine festival Orange Wine Festival - Nature in the Glass.

Where will the festival take place?

The festival venue includes Manzioli Square in the historic centre of Izola, the 15th century Manzioli Palace built in the Venetian Gothic style, the even older Podestà Palace with its winged lion, and the Church of St Mary of Haliaetum, where the festival discussions will take place.

Will growers at the Orange Wine Festival - Nature in the Glass present only orange wines?

No. Growers at the festival will present white, orange and sparkling wines produced in harmony with nature and in accordance with the principles set out in the festival’s Manifesto. In both vineyard and cellar, growers use protective and oenological agents in a measured and restrained way. All processes are as spontaneous and judicious as possible. The level of added sulphites is kept to a minimum. The wines are free of faults and flaws.

What commitments do the participating growers uphold?

Growers are responsible farmers who are committed to the biodiversity of their environment. They uphold the harmonious interaction of all three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social and economic. They strive to enhance the reputation of their region and of the entire community of winemakers and wine lovers. They are also custodians of the cultural landscape and the specific identity of the place their wine comes from.

What does the festival ticket include?

The ticket includes wine tastings and culinary miniatures, direct contact with growers, chefs and producers of olive oil, cheese, cured meats and other products, participation in festival workshops (registration required) and a glimpse into the future of wine. It also includes the festival catalogue with all essential information. A symbolic deposit is required for the tasting glass.

Which countries will the growers come from?

Growers presenting their white, orange and sparkling wines in Izola/Isola will come from Slovenia, Italy, Croatia, Austria, Slovakia, Georgia, Hungary, Czechia, Serbia, Bulgaria and the wines from South Africa.

When is the best time to arrive in Izola/Isola on Friday, 24 April?

We recommend arriving as early as possible. Our parking tip is the Ladjedelnica (shipyard) area, where the full day parking fee is 4 EUR. We recommend lunch in one of Izola’s taverns and restaurants, especially Hotel Marina Restaurant, Bujol and Sidro. After that, head to the festival, which begins with the opening ceremony and blessing at 13:45 on Manzioli Square.

Will anything be happening in Izola/Isola after the festival ends?

For Izola/Isola, the Orange Wine Festival - Nature in the Glass is like a New Year’s celebration. Visitors and growers stay in town, meet for dinners and continue the evening in a relaxed atmosphere either on Manzioli Square or at the nearby Svetilnik. We can assure you that Friday, 24 April, in Izola will be unforgettable.