The Vitouska grape is an indigenous variety from Slovenia, widely cultivated throughout the Karst region, encompassing both Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy and the Slovenian side of the border. Its name likely originates from the village of Vipacco (now Vitovlje in Slovenia). Across the border, it is known as Vitovska Gargania and has been a part of this area’s viticultural heritage for centuries. Most commonly referred to by its synonym Vitovska, this grape variety has recently gained recognition for its unique oenological qualities. Until a few decades ago, Vitovska was almost exclusively used in blends. However, the recent trend of reviving native grape varieties has led to a growing interest in single-varietal wines made from this grape. These wines highlight the distinct character of the variety, showcasing its suitability for pure vinification.
