Štajerska impressed at the FINE 2026 wine tourism fair as the only Slovenian destination

Destination Štajerska presented itself as the only Slovenian representative at the international wine tourism trade fair FINE – Wine Tourism Marketplace 2026, which in Valladolid, Spain once again confirmed its status as one of the most important European business platforms for wine tourism.

This year the fair brought together more than 140 exhibitors from 21 countries, who presented their offer to specialist tour operators and travel agencies from various markets in over 2,000 business meetings.

Štajerska presented itself to the international professional public with the title of third best European destination, with Maribor as the European Wine Capital 2026 and with a rich wine heritage that places it among the most recognisable wine regions in this part of Europe. The wine cellar VINAG 1847 also held a special place in the presentation.

Among the stories with which Štajerska addresses the international market, the most prominent are the World's Oldest Grapevine in Maribor, the rich tradition of Slovenian sparkling wines, the oldest Slovenian wine at the Ptuj Wine Cellar, aromatic white wines and the renowned heart among the vineyards at Špičnik.

As Karmen Razlag, Head of the Tourism Sector at RRA Podravje – Maribor, emphasises, the destination is developing as a boutique, authentic and sustainability-oriented wine tourism region, building its recognition through the integration of wine, cuisine, cultural heritage and experiences.

An important role in international representation is also played by VINAG 1847, where they highlight that appearances at such trade fairs open new opportunities for connecting with partners and strengthening the visibility of Štajerska wines and the wine-culinary offer on foreign markets.

With its presentation, Štajerska once again proved that even as a smaller wine region it can confidently stand alongside the greatest European wine destinations.