Our Istria

Thousand-year rich tradition

Historical sources indicate that olive oil has been present in Slovenian Istria since antiquity. It was mentioned by Pausanias, a Greek historian. Istrian oil was present on the menus of the most prestigious layers of Roman society, even in the imperial kitchen during the reign of the Roman Emperor Augustus.

Slovenian Istria is one of the northernmost areas where olive trees still grow. The olive oils of this area undoubtedly belong to the best, especially due to the special Mediterranean climate in which they thrive. They are known for their exceptional aromatic and therapeutic properties.

The most well-known and widespread in Slovenian Istria is undoubtedly the Istrian Belica. Old olive varieties are becoming increasingly popular and appreciated, such as: buga črnica, štorta, etc.

About Istrian olive groves.

Slovenian Istria

Slovenian Istria is known for its picturesque coastal towns, stunning Adriatic coastline, and rich cultural heritage. The region is also home to olive groves that produce high-quality olive oil. The olive groves are situated on the gentle rolling hills and provide a perfect backdrop for a rural escape. The combination of the natural beauty of Istria and the authentic charm of its countryside make it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway. The olive oil produced in Slovenian Istria is known for its unique taste and high levels of beneficial polyphenols, making it a sought-after product both locally and internationally.

The size of Slovenian Istria
approximately 2,270 square kilometers. and around 120 settlements.
Location
Istria is a historical region and geographical unit that encompasses the eponymous peninsula in southwestern Slovenia and northwestern Croatia, on the northeast coast of the Adriatic Sea. A small part of Istria also extends into Italy.

Soil

The Slovenian Istria mostly consists of flysch, which is a rock that is not permeable but is very susceptible to erosion. Soils have formed on three different substrates: most on flysch, less on limestone, and on river alluvium. Types of soil on flysch: regosols, leptosols (carbonate rendzina), cambisols, antrosols, luvisols, planosols. (source: Wikipedia)

Climate

The climate in Koper is sub-Mediterranean, characterized by long and hot summers, mild winters and frequent winds such as burja, jugo, and maestral. Average January temperatures are above 4°C, while average July temperatures are above 22°C. The sea is coldest in February (8°C) and warmest in August (24°C). The most rainfall occurs in the fall. (Source: Wikipedia)

Olives and oil

The production of olive oil in Slovenia is small compared to other EU countries, but the quality of olive oil produced is high. Slovenia produces between 1,800 and 2,500 tons of olives annually, yielding between 400 and 450 tons of olive oil.