About winery
Litterarii Winery is located in the historic Nespeš Manor, built in 1794 as a countryside estate. Wine has been produced in its cellar for centuries, uninterrupted—even when the building was repurposed as an elementary school after World War II. Today, the tradition continues under the leadership of Goran Hanžek, a seasoned enologist with over 30 years of experience on the Croatian wine scene, known for projects such as Meneghetti Winery in Istria. The name Litterarii is inspired by the Latin term ludus litterarius—meaning elementary school—and also by rarus, which signifies something rare, special, and extraordinary, perfectly reflecting the winery’s philosophy and wines. Hanžek’s knowledge, experience, and respect for nature form the foundation of Litterarii’s wine quality. The vineyards are situated on the prime slopes of Zelina’s Prigorje, on the southern side of Mount Medvednica, at altitudes between 190 and 220 meters. With exceptional sun exposure and mature vines planted in 1989, this location offers ideal conditions for winemaking. The varieties grown include Chardonnay, Green Silvaner, Rhine Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc—grapes of outstanding potential that express the unique terroir of continental Croatia, right on the 45th parallel. Litterarii offers eight wine labels across several product lines. The fresh wine line includes four labels: Chardonnay, Green Silvaner, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rhine Riesling. The Litterarii Emeritus Premium line features two wines—Chardonnay and Pinot Noir—crafted with greater complexity and refinement. The winery also produces a sparkling wine, Litterarii Gaudeamus, made in the traditional bottle-fermentation method, from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rhine Riesling.