Our Story
What Makes Us Unique
The exceptional terroir of our estate, located between two extinct volcanoes, our nature-friendly vineyard practices, and precise work in the cellar give our wines their distinctive character.
Our clear vision is focused on achieving optimal grape maturity while working with perfectly healthy fruit, which is carefully harvested and sorted by hand. Modern cellar technology allows us to process the grapes under ideal conditions, precisely control fermentation temperatures, and mature our wines after fermentation, partly on fine lees.
All of this enables us to interfere with natural processes as little as possible. We allow the wine to develop naturally, without excessive intervention, giving it the time and space to express its true character.
We trust our wine.
Our family
Matija in Hilda Gjerkeš
At the end of the 1980s, Matija and Hilda Gjerkeš took over a neglected and declining farm. They carefully renovated the homestead while preserving all the authentic features of the traditional farmhouse, originally built in 1925. For their outstanding renovation, they received first prize in 1999 in the “Best Farm” competition organized by the Vestnik newspaper. Even earlier, in 1996, the restored cellar in the old farmhouse was declared the most beautiful cellar in Goričko. In 1992, they planted their first vineyard, marking the beginning of the estate’s winemaking story.
Leon in Helena Gjerkeš
After his father’s accident in 2007, Leon Gjerkeš took over the estate together with his family. They began writing a new chapter in the estate’s story, marked by remarkable achievements at national and international wine competitions. In 2011, they started the construction of a new, modern wine cellar with dedicated production facilities and tasting spaces. In the same year, the Gjerkeš brand underwent a complete renewal, introducing a new bottle design and a refreshed visual identity. In 2023, the estate expanded its offer with seven guest rooms, a breakfast area, and a kitchen, creating a complete experience that combines wine, gastronomy, and hospitality.
Matic Gjerkeš - WSET 3
Matic is actively involved in the work in the vineyards and cellar, as well as in the continued development of Gjerkeš Estate. In 2023, he brought his long-held vision to life by opening a restaurant, which he now leads and develops. In a short time, the restaurant has been recognized among the best by various culinary guides, enriching the estate’s offer with a unique wine and gastronomy experience.
Dorian Gjerkeš in Katarina Puhan Gjerkeš
Son Dorian and his wife Katarina run the Puhan farm and tourist farm in Bogojina. At their estate, they offer exceptional products from their own production, taking care of every step from field to plate. They provide guests with an unforgettable experience of traditional Prekmurje cuisine. More about their story can be found at the link below
Aira in Duffy
Our mascots, Aira and Duffy, live with us and are always the first to welcome and greet every guest with joy. As part of our estate, we also have the Wineopolis kennel, dedicated to breeding Lagotto Romagnolo dogs – the Romagna Water Dog. More information can be found at the link below.
Our history
The Birth of Our Homestead
Our homestead was built in 1925.
1925
The Beginnings of the First Generation
Our ancestors moved to the estate in 1945. The highly successful and progressive fruit-growing and livestock farm began to decline in the 1970s.
1945
Taking Over and Renovating the Farm
At the end of the 1980s, Matija Gjerkeš and his wife Hilda took over the farm. They carefully renovated the homestead while preserving all the authentic features of the traditional farmhouse built in 1925. For their outstanding restoration, they received first prize in 1999 in the “Best Farm” competition organized by the Vestnik newspaper. Earlier, in 1996, the renovated cellar in the old farmhouse was declared the most beautiful cellar in Goričko.
1987
Planting the First Vines
In 1992, we planted our first vines of Welschriesling, Riesling, and Chardonnay on the slopes where orchards had previously grown. In 1996, 1999, and 2009, we expanded our vineyards and added Yellow Muscat and Pinot Gris.
1992
The First Bottling
We filled our first wine bottles in 1994.
1994
The Beginning of a New Story
In 2007, Leon Gjerkeš took over the estate together with his family. Alongside his wife Helena and their sons Dorian and Matic, they began writing a new chapter in the estate’s story.
2007
The Beginning of a Modern Wine Cellar
A new visual identity and the start of construction of a modern wine cellar.
2011
Further Development of Our Estate
The expansion of our new building with modern guest rooms, along with the renovation of part of the old farmhouse into a breakfast area, kitchen, and accompanying facilities.
2022
Opening of the Restaurant
In October 2023, we expanded the estate with a restaurant offering tasting menus created from carefully selected local ingredients.
2023
CONTACT
RESERVATIONS
Online
+386 40 882 399
Wednesday to Saturday, 13:00–22:00
office(at)gjerkes.com
For more information, please contact us via email or phone.
