Vinalia x Stobi Winery, Vranec

Named after the nearby archaeological site of Stobi, an ancient Paeonian city, the winery honors a long history of viticulture evidenced by ancient grape presses found in the area. With over 500 hectares, Stobi focuses on local varieties like Vranec, with over half of its red plantings dedicated to the North Macedonian specialty. Among the most globally decorated wineries in North Macedonia, with recognition from Decanter and Mundus Vini, Stobi is a benchmark for both Tikveš and the region at large.

North Macedonia boasts a proud viticultural legacy, with evidence of winemaking dating back to the 13th century BCE. This heritage is intricately linked to Alexander the Great, who celebrated wine and whose armies are believed to have sourced their drink from the region. Viticulture flourished under Roman rule and persisted through the Middle Ages. However, the Ottoman Empire’s arrival in the 14th century posed challenges, imposing restrictions on alcohol. Following independence in 1991, North Macedonia's wine industry has revitalized with a renewed focus on quality.

The signature grape variety of North Macedonia, Vranec is native to and cultivated across the central Balkan Peninsula. Translating to “black stallion” from Macedonian, Vranec captures the power and brooding intensity of its name. The variety yields long-lived, deeply tannic wines with boisterous cassis, dusted plum, and tobacco flavors. With a strong affinity for oak maturation, the best examples resemble richer expressions of Argentine Malbec or California Cabernet Sauvignon.