Šuman Moon Drops 2021

Radovan Šuman is a pioneering natural winemaker from Slovenian Styria, a region nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps. Born into a family with a 300-year-old winemaking tradition, Radovan assumed responsibility for the family's four-hectare vineyard at the young age of 14, following his father's illness. This early immersion into viticulture fostered a deep connection to the land and a commitment to natural farming practices.

Radovan's approach to viticulture is deeply influenced by the principles of biodynamics, inspired by his studies in quantum physics and the teachings of Rudolf Steiner. For over two decades, he has eschewed synthetic chemicals, opting instead for herbal infusions and the integration of livestock, such as sheep and bees, to maintain vineyard health. Notably, he eliminated the use of sulfur and copper sprays, focusing on enhancing soil vitality and biodiversity.

In the cellar, Radovan employs traditional methods with minimal intervention. His wines undergo long macerations and are aged in various wooden casks, including oak, chestnut, and cherry, without the addition of microorganisms, fining, or filtration. This process results in wines that are unfiltered and alive, embodying the essence of the vineyard's terroir.

Radovan's dedication to holistic farming extends beyond viticulture. His vineyards are a testament to biodiversity, featuring a symbiotic mix of flora and fauna, including sage, lavender, fruit trees, and beehives. This ecosystem approach not only enhances the health of the vines but also contributes to the unique character of his wines. ​

Through his unwavering commitment to natural and biodynamic practices, Radovan Šuman has established himself as a leading figure in Slovenia's natural wine movement, producing wines that truly reflect the vitality and authenticity of their origin.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Slovenia, Slovenian Styria (Štajerska Slovenija) is a wine region of breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and a rich winemaking heritage. Despite being overshadowed by more famous European wine regions, Slovenian Styria has emerged as a haven for natural winemaking, attracting enthusiasts who seek wines that reflect both terroir and tradition. Known for its cool climate, diverse soils, and innovative producers, this region is gaining recognition as one of Europe’s most exciting places for authentic, low-intervention wines.

Terroir and Climate

Slovenian Styria benefits from a cool continental climate, with influences from both the Alps and the Pannonian Plain. This combination creates warm summers and cold winters, allowing grapes to ripen slowly while retaining high acidity—a key characteristic of the region’s wines. Steep vineyard slopes, often reaching 45-degree inclines, ensure optimal sun exposure and excellent drainage, leading to wines with freshness and depth.

The region’s soils vary significantly, ranging from limestone and marl to sandy and clay-rich compositions, contributing to the mineral-driven profiles of Styria’s wines. These diverse terroirs allow winemakers to craft wines with a distinctive sense of place, whether through crisp, high-acid whites or structured, skin-contact wines.

Grape Varieties and Wine Styles

Slovenian Styria is primarily a white wine region, producing zesty, aromatic wines with great acidity and structure. However, its natural wine scene has introduced a new wave of skin-contact and orange wines, redefining the region’s identity.

Key White Varieties

• Riesling (Renski Rizling): A flagship grape, producing wines with floral aromatics, citrus notes, and vibrant acidity.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Expressive and fresh, often showing green herbs, elderflower, and flinty minerality.
• Furmint (Šipon): Traditionally associated with Hungary, Furmint thrives in Styria, producing racy, high-acid wines.
• Pinot Gris (Sivi Pinot): Often used in skin-contact winemaking, resulting in deep amber-colored wines with complex texture.
• Chardonnay: Found in both classic and experimental expressions, from fresh and unoaked to oxidative styles aged in clay vessels.

Red Varieties

• Modra Frankinja (Blaufränkisch): A structured yet fresh red, known for its dark berry flavors and peppery spice.
• Zweigelt: A smooth, fruit-forward variety, often blended with Blaufränkisch.
• Pinot Noir: Gaining popularity, particularly in cooler, higher-altitude sites.

The Natural Wine Movement in Slovenian Styria

While the region has a long history of winemaking, a new generation of producers has revolutionized Slovenian Styria with biodynamic and natural winemaking philosophies. Many winemakers focus on organic farming, native yeast fermentations, and minimal sulfite additions, creating wines that are alive, expressive, and free from manipulation.

One of the leading figures in this movement is Radovan Šuman, a producer whose wines are crafted using biodynamic principles, extended macerations, and aging in clay or wooden vessels. His commitment to no sulfur and no chemical interventions has made his wines some of the most sought-after in Slovenia’s natural wine scene.

Other producers, such as Klinec, Mlečnik, and Štekar, are also pushing boundaries, experimenting with skin-contact whites, pét-nats, and oxidative aging techniques, elevating Slovenian Styria’s reputation among wine enthusiasts worldwide.