BALKANS

While Montenegro now plays host to an incredible variety of wines produced using a multitude of different grapes. It is still the Vranac that holds the heart and palette of the Montenegrin sommelier.

hanks to this new surge in innovation, the humble vranac forms the base of some of the country’s very best, top shelf wines, with crème de la crèmewearing the “Barrique” label. Not just a fancy name on a label, Barrique signifies that the wine has been aged in an oak barrel, infusing the flavours of vanilla in the white and toasted chocolatey notes in the red wines. Aged for 3-5 years, these wines are a truly delicious reward for the patience of the discerning sommelier.

Did You Know

1. You can make white wine using red grapes! The best example of this would be everyone’s favourite - Champagne - which is commonly made using Pinot Noir, Pinot Munier and Chardonnay grapes.

The Rose Revolution

lthough a far cry from the traditionally heavy, tannic Montenegrin wines, pink Rosé, or Provence to some, has become increasingly popular among Montenegrins. Light citrus and flowery scents are the perfect accompaniment to the hot, summer afternoons. Pale or blush, whatever you call it, it is made and enjoyed here!

2. White and red wines age differently. In their youth white wines are very pale and light in colour but deepen and mature as they age. Whereas, red wines start life with lush, vibrant colour, but tend to fade when aged for a long time.

3. Brut - a common label on sparkling winesimply means dry!