r a f s P e o p l e
Founder & Owner
l e m e n B n e e t i č
Klemen Benedetič is a Slovenian winemaker and the driving force behind the family-run Benedetič Winery, located in Vipolže, in the heart of the Goriška Brda wine-growing region in western Slovenia, near the Italian border and the renowned wine region of Collio.
His winemaking philosophy centres on expressing the unique terroir of Goriška Brda, with a particular focus on indigenous and traditional white grape varieties, innovative blends, and the exploration of distinctive wine styles. Through his work, Klemen seeks to capture the character of the vineyards and translate the region’s natural diversity into wines with a clear sense of identity.
Klemen’s approach combines family heritage, craftsmanship, and modern winemaking techniques. By carefully considering the soil, microclimate, and individual characteristics of each vineyard, he aims to preserve the authentic expression of the grapes while continually exploring new possibilities in winemaking.
The wines of Benedetič Winery are distinguished by their freshness, minerality, expressive fruit character, and varietal identity. Through a balance of tradition and innovation, Klemen Benedetič contributes to the evolving identity of Goriška Brda, creating wines that reflect both the richness of their origin and his personal vision as a winemaker.
Co-manager of the estate
e t r a B e e d t i č
Petra Benedetič plays an important role in the family story of Benedetič Winery, working alongside her husband, Klemen, in managing the family estate in Vipolže, Goriška Brda. Together, they carry forward a winemaking tradition that dates back to 1923, combining respect for their family heritage with a modern vision for the winery’s future.
Petra is also involved in welcoming visitors and supporting the winery’s hospitality activities. Since the opening of the winery’s tasting room, she and Klemen have shared the work of hosting guests and introducing them to the family’s wines and the character of the Brda region. Her contribution helps create a welcoming experience in which wine, local culture, and family tradition come together.
As a partner in both family life and the running of the estate, Petra contributes to the continuity and development of Benedetič Winery. Together, she and Klemen represent a new generation of the family, preserving its heritage while sharing the wines and hospitality of Goriška Brda with visitors from Slovenia and abroad.
senior winemaker
r e n a B e e d t i č
Irena Benedetič is an important member of the Benedetič winemaking family in Vipolže, Goriška Brda. Together with her husband, Franko, she represents the older generation of the family, whose dedication has helped preserve the estate’s long-standing agricultural and winemaking heritage.
The Benedetič family has passed down its knowledge of viticulture and winemaking through generations since 1923. Irena is part of this enduring family story, which continues today through her son Klemen and his wife, Petra. Their shared commitment to the estate reflects the importance of family continuity, experience, and respect for the traditions of Goriška Brda.
Although publicly available sources do not clearly define Irena’s specific day-to-day responsibilities at the winery, her place in the family represents a vital link between the generations who built the estate and those shaping its future.
Viticulture Manager
r a n o B n e e t i č
Franko Benedetič is an experienced viticulturist and winemaker who has played a significant role in developing and maintaining the family estate in Vipolže, Goriška Brda. As Klemen’s father, he represents a generation that helped preserve the family’s winemaking heritage while laying the foundations for the winery’s continued development.
Before Klemen took over the management of the farm in 2017, Franko was closely involved in the estate’s viticulture and winemaking. His experience contributed to the development of the family’s wines, combining practical knowledge of vineyard cultivation with an understanding of the grape varieties and the distinctive terroir of Goriška Brda.
Franko’s contribution is particularly meaningful in a family winery where knowledge is passed from one generation to the next. Together with Klemen, he helped establish the winery’s identity through wines that express the character of their origin. His experience and dedication represent an important link between the family’s traditional practices and Klemen’s modern approach to winemaking.
Through this generational collaboration, Franko Benedetič remains an important part of the story behind the Benedetič Winery and its continuing commitment to the vineyards and wine culture of Goriška Brda.
