In Svečina, right next to the Slovenian-Austrian border, the story of the Šerbinek family, known as Kušter, has been developing for centuries. Their family name dates back at least 500 years, while the house name Kušter has been used for around 300 years – and today it also appears on their wines. The winery combines a long winemaking tradition, distinctive vineyard sites and a modern approach, with the aim of producing mature and rich wines that remain fresh, fruity and true to their varietal character.
A Family Story that Continues
Vinko Šerbinek learned the winemaking craft from his grandfather Vinko, while his father focused mainly on fruit growing. After the war, the family was left with just one third of a hectare of vineyards. A new chapter began in 1989, when the younger Vinko and his wife Sonja started the first major renewal of the vineyards.
In recent years, Vinko has been joined in the cellar by his son Žiga, who took over the winemaking responsibilities for the first time in autumn 2019.
Vineyards on the Austrian Border
One of the defining features of Kušter wines is their distinctive vineyard locations. Domači Kogl, Pesjak, Pri Kreni and Župnikova each have their own position, soil and grape varieties.
The steep slopes are planted with varieties including Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Ottonel, Rizvanec, Welschriesling, Riesling, Kerner and Traminer, while some vineyards are still worked entirely by hand due to the demanding terrain.
The Pesjak site is mentioned in old Slovenian records as an excellent vineyard location, while the steep and partly rocky Pri Kreni vineyard is primarily planted with Riesling and Kerner.
Fresh, Sparkling and Mature Wines
Kušter divides its wines into fresh, sparkling and mature wines. The range includes Welschriesling, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer, Muscat Ottonel, Pinot Gris and several blends, including Kušter and Vincenc.
Among the sparkling wines, Muškatna Penina and Penina Edition stand out.
Their philosophy is based on time: the wines are allowed to develop and rest in the cellar for as long as possible, preserving their aromatic freshness while gaining structure and character – something the family itself describes as “kuštrava mladostnost”, or “playfully tousled youthfulness.”
Vino Kušter in Svečina
The family’s wine story can be experienced at their estate in Plač near Svečina, where fruit growing also continues to play an important role alongside viticulture.
Vino Kušter – Vinko Šerbinek
Plač 9, 2201 Zgornja Kungota
Phone: +386 31 262 480 / +386 31 565 146 / +386 41 866 259
Email: [email protected]
