This historic classification, uncovered by historian Stefano Cosma,recognized the exceptional quality of the vineyards of Collio, Colli Orientali, Goriška Brda, Lower Soča Valley, Vipava Valley, Aquileia, and Karst—almost a century before Burgundy. Today, the wines produced on these sites are the pride of the Association of the Cru Classification of Empress-Queen Maria Theresa, bringing together the most eminent winemakers from Slovenia and Italy in a shared vision of friendship, peace, and excellence.
Our wines are born from mineral-rich marlstone, a mild Mediterranean climate with warm days and cool nights, and centuries of winemaking tradition. Chardonnay, Rebula, Friulano-Jakot, Malvasia, Pinot Noir, Refosco, and Merlot are just some of the varieties that enchant with their elegance, minerality, complexity, and unique character. Each wine tells a story of cross-border collaboration, where the finest Slovenian and Italian winemakers unite their knowledge and passion to craft masterpieces worthy of an imperial heritage.
Each of these wines is crafted with love and respect for the land, first recognized as exceptional by Empress-Queen Maria Theresa.
Every October, the Franciscan Monastery of Kostanjevica comes alive with the region’s most prestigious event – the charity auction of the wines of Empress-Queen Maria Theresa’s CRU Classification. From 23 to 25 October 2025 , it will be held for the fourth time. Selected winemakers contribute a 225-liter oak barrel (300 bottles) of wine from their finest vineyards, classified as CRU sites under Maria Theresa’s historic classification. These wines, approved by a special committee, are the fruit of centuries-old tradition and an exceptional terroir, where marlstone and the mild Mediterranean climate create unparalleled flavors.
Association of the CRU classification of Empress-Queen Maria Theresa is a cross-border initiative uniting winemakers from the Gorizia wine region, Goriška Brda, and Collio, preserving the legacy of the first CRU classification from 1787. United in the spirit of friendship and peace, the winemakers continue Maria Theresa’s tradition, producing exceptional wines that inspire the world. Each year, they organize an exclusive charity auction, offering a barrel (300 bottles) of their finest wines, with the proceeds supporting various charitable initiatives. Among the distinguished members of the association, who combine a passion for winemaking excellence with historical heritage, are:
These wines showcase diversity and elegance: white wines enchant with floral notes and minerality, while red wines offer depth and velvety smoothness. Limited series from exceptional vintages add collectible value that attracts connoisseurs worldwide.
Last year’s auction opened with a ceremonial welcome in the cellar, followed by a rich tasting of selected wines and an elegant gala dinner, where bonds were forged between winemakers and guests. It reached its peak the next day with the charity auction, conducted by the renowned Dorotheum Auction House—one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world, whose 300-year tradition and reputation ensure the highest level of excellence.
The funds raised support the restoration of the Franciscan Monastery of Kostanjevica, including the renovated frescoes and the wine cellar known as the “Cellar of Great Wines of Friendship and Peace,” the restoration of the Coronini Cronberg Palace in Gorizia, and the promotion of the cross-border wine territory.
