Photos by: Rene Karaman
Text by: Tonja Blatnik
Zagreb – Ljubljana, 24 April 2026 – Zagreb has officially entered “pink mania.” As part of the celebrated Pink Day Zagreb festival, a standout masterclass dedicated to Slovenian rosé wines took place on April 22, led by Slovenia’s leading sommelier Valentin Bufolin, Chief Commercial Officer at Drinx.
Bufolin presented nine iconic Slovenian rosés from top wineries: Kozinc, Bjana, TILIA Estate – Hiša pinotov, Istenič, Puklavec Family Wines, Verstovšek, Vinakoper and Batič a selection reflecting both tradition and innovation.
“For this workshop, I selected wines that have achieved iconic status those recognized for both quality and market success. I wanted to show the diversity of Slovenia, from young winemakers to those deeply rooted in tradition,” said Bufolin.
The masterclass attracted a full audience and strong engagement, reinforcing the growing interest in Slovenian rosé wines.
A Passion Born from Heritage
Bufolin’s connection to wine runs deep: “My dedication comes from my family. I am the son of restaurateurs, and we had our own vineyard for personal use. I was fascinated by the sommelier profession people who could smell, taste, and truly understand everything that wine contains. That’s how it all began.”
Wine as Culture, Diplomacy and Economy
For Bufolin, wine is far more than a product it is a powerful cultural and economic force:
“Wine is part of our identity. Slovenia is a wine-growing country, and almost everyone has some connection to the vine. Each bottle is like a small country it carries a piece of Slovenia with it.”
He also highlights wine’s broader impact:
“Wine is an excellent ambassador. It strengthens cultural ties and represents a nation in the best way. At the same time, it is an important pillar of the economy from hospitality to trade and export. It’s a broad and meaningful story. Often, wine is what inspires connection.”
Slovenia in the Spotlight
Slovenia is the official partner country of this year’s festival, held under the auspices of the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Zagreb. The main event takes place on 25 April at Lauba, where organizers expect a record number of Slovenian winemakers. Slovenian winemakers are granted free participation. The festival is a unique event celebrating spring, rosé wines, and optimism symbolizing hope for better days and a world without war. It highlights flowers, femininity, beauty, happiness, and a positive atmosphere, symbolically inviting visitors to see the world through rose colored glasses.
As Sanja Muzaferija explains:
“The PINK DAY Zagreb festival has traditionally included a partner country, and this year, after Austria, Hungary and Italy, we are delighted that Slovenia is taking on this role. It is a country to which I also have personal roots my grandmother was born there and one that I visit regularly and deeply appreciate for its exceptional wine offering.”
Strong Impressions from Pink Day
Reflecting on the workshop itself, Bufolin emphasized both attendance and progress:
“I’m very happy to see a full room and such a strong response. It’s also encouraging to see the work being done on rosé wines.”
The Power of Wine Events
Bufolin underlines the importance of festivals like Pink Day for the development of the wine sector:
“These kinds of events are extremely important. They allow you to test what you can offer and present it to a professional audience. This often leads to collaboration. Festivals also showcase trends internationally and give winemakers ideas for further development.”
Strengths and Challenges of the Slovenian Wine Scene
Bufolin speaks highly of Slovenia’s wine quality, while pointing to the need for stronger collaboration:
“Slovenian wine is very good, and I respect it greatly. But we need to work together more effectively. Many projects remain at a good idea stage instead of becoming fully realized. Slovenia has the potential to grow as a wine destination.”
Collaboration as the Key to the Future
Bufolin concluded with a clear message about unity in the industry:
“We were happy to support this initiative. With energy, knowledge, and cooperation, we can co-create the future of winemaking and present it confidently to the world.”
Founded in 2013 by Sanja Muzaferija, Pink Day celebrates rosé wines, spring, optimism, and creativity. Beyond wine, it includes the Green in Pink olive oil segment, Pink Mixology, and a competition for the best-designed exhibition table, culminating in an official after party.
As “pink mania” takes over Zagreb, Slovenia stands proudly in the spotlight showcasing not only its wines, but its culture, identity, and growing international influence.
