Goriska Brda , is a wine region in northwestern Slovenia, at the border with the Collio district of the Friuli region of northeast Italy. Technically, Brda, which is the common name today, is in both Slovenia and Italy, though most journalists refer to Slovenia when discussing Brda.

This is a hilly region (the name Brda translates as hills), with a cool climate, thanks to breezes from the nearby Alps; acidity is excellent and in most years, there is a long growing season. White varieties such as Ribolla Gialla (known locally as Rebula), Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are common. These are complex, often intensely flavored wines, usually not oaked, so as to emphasize the varietal purity of each specific variety.

Leading red varieties include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Refosco (known locally as Teran). The versions of these wines are high in acidity, making them not only quite distinctive, but also very good food wines. Food pairings for these reds include casseroles, beef and aged cheeses.

Numerous producers also make orange wines from the Rebula grape; aged in amphorae for several years, these are ethereal wines that have to be tasted to be believed. These wines are wonderful when paired with Thai or fusion cuisine, but are better on their own, in the opinions of many locals.

Though most wines are not exported, there are more and more examples available today in the US, including Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay for less than $20. The larger producers of the area such as Movia and Primosic often have more traditional styles available for retail in the US and these bottles offer an great opportunity to sample excellent orange wine. (Wine/Appellations)