Sentjur

Šentjur lies within Slovenia's hop heartland—the Lower Savinja Valley that produces 2-3% of the world's supply from just 1,700 hectares. The concentration is remarkable: Slovenia ranks fifth globally in hop production, exporting 98% of its harvest to breweries across Europe and beyond. The green cones that flavor beer generate more agricultural export revenue than any other Slovenian crop.

The tradition dates to the late 19th century, when growers recognized that the valley's climate and soil suited Humulus lupulus. The Slovenian Institute of Hop Research and Brewing, based in nearby Žalec, has coordinated scientific development since 1952. Domestic varieties—Aurora, Celeia, Savinjski golding, Bobek—dominate, though newer aromatic cultivars like Styrian Wolf expand the range.

The Eco-Museum of Hop-Growing and Brewing Industry documents what industrialization transformed and what craft revival now celebrates. Šentjur contributes to a regional economy where 120 farms tend hops across the valley, Celje and Žalec serve as commercial centers, and research institutions ensure that Slovenian varieties remain competitive against larger producers.

By 2026, Šentjur will likely remain embedded in the hop economy that defines its region. The craft beer movement's global growth expands demand for distinctive varieties; Slovenian hops benefit from terroir claims that commodity producers cannot match. What began as agricultural diversification became specialized excellence.