If you’re a wine lover visiting Skopje, you’re in for a treat. Macedonia is home to some of the best wineries in the Balkans, offering visitors a chance to taste some of the finest wines in the region.
With a rich history of wine production dating back to ancient times, the capital Skopje has a lot to offer wine enthusiasts.
From family-owned wineries to larger commercial operations, there are plenty of options to choose from, and visiting some wineries whilst in Skopje is a must-do activity for anyone who likes wines.
Not only will you get to taste some of the best wines in the region, but you’ll also learn about the history and culture of wine production in Skopje and greater Macedonia.
A Brief History of Macedonian Wine
The history of wine production in Macedonia dates back to the time of the ancient Romans, who recognized the region’s potential for viticulture.
Over the millennia, this tradition has been passed down from generation to generation, surviving the Ottoman Empire’s rule when wine production was restricted.
By the 20th century, the wine industry began to modernize, with a focus on improving the quality and variety of wines.
In recent years, Macedonian wines have begun to garner international attention and acclaim, marking a new chapter in the country’s wine history.
Despite the changes and challenges, the spirit of Macedonian winemaking remains rooted in its rich past, and it continues to shape the country’s wine culture today.
An Overview of the Wine Regions in Macedonia
Macedonia is home to three main wine regions.
The first is Povardarie, located in the central part of the country, known for its robust red wines and mineral-rich white wines.
The most common sorts of red wine in this region are Vranec, Kratošija, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The second is Pčinja-Osogovo in the east and near Bulgaria, famed for its bold, dark reds and fresh, vivacious whites.
The most common sorts of red wine in this region include the Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay Noir, Gamay Tenturier, Pinot Noir, and Vranec.
As for the white wines, those are Muscat Ottonel, Riesling, Sipon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Zilavka, a light-skinned grape variety noted for its high levels of natural acidity and potential alcohol, traits that are particularly desirable for the production of brandies and other grape-derived spirits.
The third and smallest region is Pelagonia-Polog in the west, which accounts for 10-15% of the total wine production in the country.
The climate here is predominantly that of high mountains, characterized by cold and humid winters and hot and dry summers.
A majority of production in this region comes from international grapes, and the most common sorts of wine in this region are Chardonnay, Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Zilavka.
Each of these regions offers unique terroir and grape varieties, contributing to the diverse wine production of Macedonia.
Grape Varieties in Macedonia
Macedonia boasts a diverse selection of grape varieties, both indigenous and international, which contribute to the country’s rich wine culture.
The most notable local grape is Vranec, renowned for producing intense, full-bodied red wines with flavors of ripe black fruits and spices.
This grape variety is often compared to Italy’s Primitivo or America’s Zinfandel.
On the white side, the indigenous Zilavka stands out, creating fresh, acidic wines with subtle floral and fruit notes.
Apart from these, Macedonia also cultivates international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Riesling, allowing the country’s winemakers to experiment and create unique blends and flavorful wines.
Top 5 Wineries in Macedonia
Tikves Winery
Tikves Winery, nestled in the heart of the Povardarie region, is the oldest and largest winery in Southeast Europe, with a tradition dating back to 1885.
This historic winery enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cool winters that provide the perfect conditions for grape growing.
Known for its commitment to innovation and quality, Tikves combines modern winemaking techniques with traditional Macedonian grape varieties to create a delightful range of wines.
The winery produces a wide range of wines, including red, white, and rose, and is known for its award-winning ‘Alexandria Cuvee,’ a blend (cuvée) of Merlot, Vranec, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Other notable examples include their ‘T’ga za Jug,’ a dry red wine made from the Vranec grape, which is one, if not the most popular wine choice for locals.
For visitors, Tikves offers wine tastings and tours of their cellar, offering a unique insight into the heritage and artistry of Macedonian winemaking.
In sum, a visit to the Tikves Winery is an essential part of any Macedonian wine tour.
Name of the Tour: Tikves Winery Private Wine Tour from Skopje
Duration: The tour typically lasts for about 6 hours.
Cost: The average cost per person is $80.
Included Amenities: The tour is offered in English and includes pickup, the tasting of four different wines, a three-course lunch of local cuisine, and the exploration of the winery’s wine.
Highlights: Visitors will have the opportunity to sample their award-winning red wines, which are unique blends of the local Vranec and Merlot grapes. The serene vineyard setting and the chance to learn about Macedonia’s viticulture are also memorable experiences.
Contact Information: For booking and more information, click here.
Stobi Winery
Stobi Winery, located in the central part of Macedonia near the town of Gradsko, is another iconic winery that deserves a spot in any wine enthusiast’s itinerary.
Rich in tradition and history, the winery is situated on the site of the ancient town of Stobi, a significant archaeological site and once the capital of Macedonia’s Roman province, which adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the winery’s story.
Stobi Winery enjoys a blend of the Mediterranean climate from the south and the continental climate from the north, which creates an ideal environment for the cultivation of both red and white grape varieties.
Here, winemaking techniques blend tradition with technology, resulting in wines that pay homage to Macedonia’s winemaking heritage while embracing modernity.
Standout wines include the robust, spicy Vranec, the autochthonous Žilavka, and the fruity Smederevka, which is considered the leading grape variety for the production of white wines in Macedonia.
With over 25 different labels currently being produced in the Stobi Winery, each presenting a distinct expression of Macedonia’s terroir, a visit to this winery is a true delight for wine lovers.
Name of the Tour: Half-Day Stobi Wine Tour
Duration: The tour typically lasts around 4 hours.
Cost: The average cost per person is $90.
Included Amenities: The tour includes pickup, tasting of four diverse wines, a sumptuous three-course meal showcasing local dishes, and a tour of the winery’s ancient archaeological site.
Highlights: Visitors will appreciate the chance to savor the winery’s premium Vranec wines, experience the unique setting steeped in history, and gain valuable knowledge about the Macedonian winemaking tradition.
Contact Information: For booking and more information, click here.
Chateau Kamnik Winery
Chateau Kamnik Winery is one of the premier boutique wineries located on the outskirts of Skopje, the capital city of Macedonia.
This winery stands out for its dedication to creating high-quality, limited-production wines using both indigenous and international grape varieties.
Kamnik is known for its Terroir wines, especially the Ten Barrels Syrah and Fume Blanc, which have won numerous international awards, including a gold medal for the Mundus Vini Summer Tasting in 2022.
Their wines reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards and the distinctive characteristics of the grapes.
Chateau Kamnik manifests a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, making it perfect for viticulture.
They adhere to a combination of traditional and modern winemaking methods to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and aroma.
The winery also offers a delightful gastronomic experience at their onsite restaurant.
Visitors to Chateau Kamnik can enjoy a variety of experiences, including a tour of the vineyards, the winery, and the wine cellar, as well as a guided wine tasting.
A visit to Chateau Kamnik Winery is sure to leave you with an unforgettable experience of Macedonian viticulture.
Name of the Tour: Chateau Kamnik Winery Tasting Room
Duration: The tour typically lasts for about 3 hours.
Cost: The average cost per person is $70.
Included Amenities: The tour includes a guided tour of the vineyards, winery, and cellar, as well as a tasting of different wines paired with local delicacies, lunch or dinner (depending on the time you’re visiting.)
Highlights: Visitors will appreciate the opportunity to taste Kamnik’s esteemed Terroir wines, learn about the unique terroir of their vineyards, and indulge in delicious Macedonian cuisine.
Contact Information: For booking and more information, click here.
Kartal Winery
Kartal Winery is a must-visit gem located in the heart of Skopje, making it an easy venture for visitors with a limited amount of time who can’t venture outside of the capital for longer tours but still want to have an authentic Macedonian wine experience.
The winery has made a name for itself for being a wholesome family-run business with a commitment to producing high-quality wines that are a true representation of Macedonia’s rich winemaking tradition and unique terroir.
Kartal is especially known for its superior quality Vranec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo grapes, which, although originating from Spain, come from vineyards located in the village of Vojnica in the Veles Wine District, where the soil is terra rossa.
Kartal Winery combines traditional winemaking practices with modern technology in its production process to create wines that embody the region’s diverse microclimates and soils.
The winery also offers immersive wine-tasting experiences for visitors, allowing them to sample their exquisite wines whilst gaining an in-depth understanding of their crafting process.
A visit to the Kartal Winery provides a comprehensive insight into Macedonian viticulture and leaves one with a deeper appreciation of the country’s vibrant wine culture.
Name of the Tour: Wine Tasting Tour in Family Winery ‘Kartal’
Duration: The tour typically lasts for about 2 hours.
Cost: The average cost per person is $56.
Included Amenities: The tour includes a private wine-tasting session with the winery’s owners, a traditional Macedonian lunch and local sides paired with their wines, and a tour of the winery.
Highlights: Visitors will appreciate the chance to taste Kartal’s exceptional Vranec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo wines, learn about different grape growing techniques and wine production processes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards.
Contact Information: For booking and more information, click here.
Chateau Sopot Winery
Chateau Sopot is a newer winery in Macedonia that is definitely worth a visit.
Located close to Lake Mladost in the Veles wine region, this family-owned winery is celebrated for its commitment to traditional winemaking methods and meticulous cultivation of its vineyards.
Along with the breathtaking on-site scenery, the winery is also known for its expressive
Predominantly known for its expressive red wines, Chateau Sopot boasts some exceptional labels, including Vranec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cuvée, and Kratošija, a native grape closely related to Zinfandel.
The winery is nestled in a region that enjoys a balanced continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, ideal for grape cultivation.
The winery employs both modern and traditional winemaking techniques, allowing the wines to truly reflect the unique terroir of the region.
The winery also provides visitors with a captivating tour, including wine-tasting sessions of their most coveted labels.
A visit to Chateau Sopot Winery is an experience that promises to enhance your understanding and appreciation of Macedonian viticulture.
Name of the Tour: Private Wine Tour of Chateau Sopot Winery from Skopje
Duration: The tour typically lasts between 3-5 hours.
Cost: The average cost per person is $100.
Included Amenities: The tour includes a guided tour of the vineyards, winery, and cellar, as well as a wine-tasting session with their renowned Vranec and Merlot wines paired with traditional Macedonian dishes.
Highlights: Visitors will have the chance to sample exceptional red wines and learn about traditional winemaking techniques, as well as enjoy stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
Contact Information: For booking and more information, click here.
Wine Tasting Experience
Wine Tasting Tips
Take your time: Wine is a complex beverage with layers of flavors that unfold gradually. Rushing through the tasting can cause you to miss these subtleties. By taking your time, you allow your palate to identify and appreciate the different flavor notes. Each sip can reveal something new, enhancing the entire wine-tasting experience.
Smell the wine: A significant part of our sense of taste comes from our sense of smell. The aroma of the wine, also known as its “nose,” can provide clues about its character and complexity. It might reveal hints of fruits, flowers, herbs, spices, or even earthy tones. By smelling the wine before you taste it, you prime your brain and palate to identify these components better when you drink.
Swirl the wine: Swirling the wine in your glass oxygenates it, which helps to release its aromas and flavors. This process, known as “aeration,” can enhance the wine’s character, making it more expressive and enjoyable to drink. It’s especially beneficial for wines with high tannin levels, like reds, as it can make them smoother and less astringent.
Take notes: When visiting multiple wineries or tasting various wines, details can start to blur together. Taking notes helps you keep track of the wines you’ve tasted, including their names, vintages, and your impressions of them. This practice not only aids memory but also enhances your understanding and appreciation of wine over time. It can guide your future wine selections as well.
Stay hydrated: Wine, particularly red wine, can leave a lingering taste on your palate. Drinking water between tastings cleanses your palate, ensuring that the flavors of one wine don’t interfere with your experience of the next. Staying hydrated also helps counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol, helping you to stay alert and focused on the tasting experience.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Pairing wine with food can enhance the flavors of both. Here are some suggestions for food pairings to try:
| Wine Type | Food Pairing |
|---|---|
| Red Wine | Steak, lamb, dark chocolate |
| White Wine | Seafood, chicken, pasta with cream sauce |
| Rosé Wine | Salads, grilled vegetables, light pasta dishes |
| Sparkling Wine | Oysters, caviar, sushi |
Remember, these are just suggestions. The best pairing is the one that you enjoy the most, but there are plenty of tastebud adventures you can embark on with Macedonian food.
Skopje is a fantastic destination for wine lovers, with many wineries and vineyards to explore.
Whether you are looking for a small, family-run operation or a larger, more established winery, there is something for everyone in this region.
Some of the top wineries to visit include Kartal Winery, Chateau Kamnik, and Tikves Winery.
These wineries offer excellent wine tastings and tours paired up with the right food, as well as beautiful scenery and friendly staff.
Additionally, wine tours and tastings are a great way to learn more about Macedonian wine and the winemaking process.
Overall, visiting Skopje is incomplete without exploring the local wineries and vineyards.
With so much to see and taste, you are sure to have a memorable experience.
This guide was first published on March 28, 2023 and was last updated on October 31, 2023. For more information, please contact us at contact@skopjeguide.com.
