Slovenia: Festival of old vine in Maribor

In the city of Maribor, which is located in east Slovenia, on September 16, 2011 will begin the Old Wine Festival. It is one the most memorable winemaking wine-making events of the year in Slovenia.

Annually in September Maribor attracts thousands of tourists that would take part in the celebration. In addition to the folk festivals, Maribor attracts people to see the most ancient wine willow in Europe, which grows in front of an old hotel on the Vodnilov street in the downtown.

Approximate age of the vines is over 440 years, and it is included into the Guinness Book of Records. But what is more surprisingly, the vine still brings the harvest. Residents are very proud of this vine. This wine gave the festival’s name - Old Vine Festival. And near it is held the grand opening of the festival and the ceremony of gathering grapes from Stare trte is the culmination of the holiday. Berries are collected personally by the mayor, and after he had them try and confirm that the grapes are ripe, the harvest season is officially opened.

Stare trte is refers to the variety of Zhametovka - one of the most popular wine varieties in Slovenia. In Maribor is located Europe's largest wine cellar - "Underworld Maribor", where are stored the best wines of Slovenia, including those types made from the grapes harvested from Stare trte. As during the days of Old Vine Festival in the historic city center are organized many cultural and entertainment activities - concerts, costume parades, performances of street artists, exhibitions and, of course, tastings, cooking shows and competitions, where local chefs, winemakers and farmers demonstrate their skills .

In addition to winemaking in Maribor is being successfully developed ski tourism on the Mount Pohorje, where today are prepared routes for giant slalom of international level. 10 years ago Maribor acquired the status of the Alpine town.