If you haven't tried a wine from Slovenia before, you're not alone. Despite a decade working in the wine industry, Laylo's Co-founders Laura Riches and Laura Rosenberger had never considered buying a wine from the region. So when samples of a Slovenian Pinot Blanc landed on their desk, they weren't convinced.

“We had been looking for a popular, crowd-pleasing style such as a Picpoul de Pinet, so when a sample of Slovenian Pinot Blanc arrived, we only opened it out of curiosity. However, as soon as we tasted the sample, we realised we'd discovered something very special.” - Laura Rosenberger

The wine was sourced for Laylo by Master of Wine Clem Yates, who says: “The quality of wines coming out of Slovenia has really caught my eye. This Pinot Blanc has the opulent texture of top quality Albariños, but because it's from a lesser-known region it doesn't carry the same price tag.”

It's a fresh, approachable blend of Pinot Blanc and Furmint that's perfect as an aperitif or with seafood. Aromas of jasmine and honeysuckle burst from the glass, then the touch of Furmint gives it a soft, rounded taste, followed by a refreshing lick of citrus.

The winemaker behind Laylo's Lot #5: Pinot Blanc is Mitja Herga, a passionate advocate of low-intervention techniques. Working from the picturesque terraced vineyards of Jeruzalem, he has pioneered the use of Furmint - a grape usually associated with sweet Hungarian wines - to create complex, elegant blends.

Under socialism in Slovenia, historic family vineyards transferred to state ownership. Operating in co-operatives, the focus moved to low-quality, high-yield bulk production, which gave the country a bad reputation in the wine trade. But when independence was declared in 1991, talented winemakers such as Mitja Herga had the freedom to make small-batch premium wines, which are now starting to win global acclaim. 

“We love wines with a story to tell. This gorgeous gem is part of an incredible intersection of winemaking and politics. It's been such a joy to learn more about the history of winemaking in Slovenia - and it's exciting now the wine has launched to share that knowledge with Laylo customers.” - Laura Riches 

Laylo's box design is inspired by the geometric patterns of Slovenian folk embroidery. Its characteristic blue, black and white cross-stitch is reminiscent of traditional dress or ornate home textiles, while the bright floral motif is a nod to the fragrant perfume of the wine.

The eco-friendly boxed packaging generates 90% less carbon than the equivalent wine in glass bottles, so not only does it look great on your table, it is also kinder to the planet. 

The Lot #5: Pinot Blanc is exclusively available at www.drinklaylo.com for £32.99 per 2.25L box (equivalent 3 bottles) including free next day delivery as standard.

For more information contact laura.riches@drinklaylo.com | 07854206038