Šember Winery

Šember Winery is located on a family estate in Donji Pavlovčani, where three generations of winemakers nurture both tradition and innovation. The winery is led by Zdenko Šember, a visionary and the main creator of their wines, with strong support from his wife Ivanka, who is involved in all aspects of the winery’s operations—from vineyard work to wine tastings. Their son Nikola, an agronomist, and daughters Lucija and Klara are also actively engaged, particularly in guest reception, while Zdenko’s parents, Ružica and Stjepan, continue working in the vineyards, passing down their knowledge to younger generations.
The winery cultivates 6 hectares of vineyards on the southern and southwestern slopes of the Plešivica-Okić wine-growing region, with notable sites including Pavel, Bresnica, Vučjak, Starjak, and Mladina. Their first labeled wines entered the market in 1991, and the first traditional method sparkling wine followed in 1997.
Šember Winery is especially known for experimenting with ancient winemaking techniques. In 2011, they introduced their first qvevri wine—a Riesling fermented in Georgian clay amphorae buried in the ground. Since then, other varieties like Pinot Noir have also proven excellent in this method. Among their sparkling wines are Šember Brut, Brut Rosé, and the new “Pavel” sparkling wine—made from 90% Chardonnay and 10% Plavec Žuti, a tribute to their village Donji Pavlovčani and Saint Paul, whose chapel is near their vineyards. Looking ahead, Chardonnay will be used exclusively for sparkling wines, while Pinot Noir and Riesling remain the standout still wine varieties in this terroir. The winery also features a modern tasting room with space for up to 30 guests.