EXPLORING THE COLLIO WINE REGION
BEST WINERIES NEAR TRIESTE
Just an hour from Trieste, the Collio (or Brda in Slovenian) wine region offers rolling vineyards, hilltop villages, and world-class wines. Nestled between Italy and Slovenia, this cross-border region is ideal for wine tasting, slow travel, and unforgettable landscapes.
What Makes Collio Special?
Collio’s secret is its soil and microclimate, ideal for elegant whites and structured reds.
Top grape varieties:
• Friulano – Dry, fresh, and floral
• Ribolla Gialla – Crisp and citrusy
• Malvasia Istriana – Aromatic and balanced
• Merlot and Refosco – Local red highlights
Many wineries practice organic or biodynamic farming, and tastings are often held by the winemakers themselves.
You might also be interested in a Wine and Olive Oil Tasting right in the city center.
Best Wineries to Visit
1. Venica & Venica (Dolegna del Collio)
A family-run estate with exceptional whites and stunning cellar tours. Their Sauvignon is internationally acclaimed.
2. Edi Keber (Cormòns)
Traditional winemaking with minimal intervention—only one wine produced each year, a blend of Collio whites.
3. Borgo San Daniele (Cormòns)
Known for their elegant blends and peaceful setting. Book ahead for guided tastings in a scenic courtyard.
4. La Castellada (Oslavia)
Pioneers of orange wine—complex, skin-contact whites aged in barrels. A must for wine enthusiasts.
5. Ščurek (Slovenian Brda)
Cross the border into Slovenia for warm hospitality and lush views. Their Rebula and blends are stellar.
Would you rather stay in the city center? Check out Best Wine Bars and Local Wines to Try in Trieste.
How to Plan Your Visit
• Best time to visit: Spring through autumn, especially during harvest (September–October)
• Transport tips: Rent a car for flexibility; there’s limited public transport
• Tasting etiquette: Call ahead or book online, most wineries require reservations
Note: The Italian-Slovenian border is open and easy to cross. Bring your ID or passport just in case.
Combine Wine with Culture
• Stop in Cormòns: Visit the town’s enoteca, browse local food shops, or climb Monte Quarin for views.
• Lunch in a trattoria: Many wineries recommend nearby restaurants offering local pairings; prosciutto, Montasio cheese, and jota stew.
The Collio wine region is a dream escape for travelers staying in Trieste. With welcoming wineries, exquisite wines, and postcard-perfect hills, it’s an unforgettable day trip, or weekend getaway, waiting to be uncorked.
Ready to find out more? Here's a list of Traditional Triestine Dishes You Must Try.