Whispers of Izola with Luka Zaro
"In life, I believe motivation is important—wanting to do better, work more, and being willing to constantly introduce changes in order to achieve that."
In the second episode of the Izola podcast, we host Luka Zaro – a winemaker from one of the most recognizable winemaking families in Izola. In addition to wine production, the Zaro family is also behind the Orange Wine Festival – an international festival of orange wines, which will take place on April 25th at Manzioli Square and in the eponymous palace.
We spoke with Luka about growing up in a winemaking family, life with his twin brother Matej, his experiences abroad, the drinking culture in Asia, and his return to the family business at Zaro Wines. He also shared insights on his return home, reflecting on his family’s expectations, his perspective on what Izola means to him today, and how he navigates life in a multicultural environment. The conversation also delved into his second passion – opera.
What's special about this episode? In the end, Luka accepted a challenge– a blind tasting of three wines, prepared by none other than his twin brother. Did he identify all the wines? You’ll have to listen to find out!
Villa Carolina: A Tranquil Retreat in Korte
The second episode was recorded in Villa Carolina, a charming countryside house in Korte, just a few minutes' drive from Izola, surrounded by olive groves and Mediterranean vegetation. This accommodation also boasts an exceptional rating on Booking, 9.8.
The villa is designed in a traditional Istrian style, yet offers everything we expect from a modern getaway – from a beautiful pool to a comfortable interior with two bedrooms, a spacious terrace, and a fully equipped kitchen.
It’s the perfect place for a retreat in nature, exploring the countryside, or simply enjoying the peace, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet just a step away from the coast.
What awaits you in the second episode of the Whisper of Izola podcast?
- How did Luka spend his childhood in a winemaking family?
- What drove him to go abroad, and what did he experience there?
- What is the wine-drinking culture like in Asia?
- Was returning home part of his plan?
- What does it mean to co-create one of the most important orange wine festivals in Europe?
- What is his favorite part of winemaking today?
- What is it like living in a multicultural family?
- How has his love for opera shaped him?
- And finally – how did he fare in the blind tasting prepared by his twin brother?
