Vranec

Vranec (Macedonian: Вранец) or Vranac (Serbian: Вранац /
Vranac) is an ancient variety of grape that is indigenous
to the Republic of Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro. Vranec
is considered the most important variety of grape in
Montenegro and the one of the most important in the Republic
of Macedonia. As it is a local specialty and due to its
localised geography, it produces a dry red wine of a unique
taste and character that is synonymous with the Balkans.

Vranac berries are large and deeply coloured, the dark berries
grow on moderately vigorous and very productive vines. The
fruit is harvested by hand and depending on the area this can
begin from mid-September and continue into October.

The young Vranec wines have a bright purple hue and a nose
full of red berries and fruit jams. Its firm tannin structure
provides crispness and richness with medium to high levels
of extraction and acidity. After a year or two of ageing the
purple develops into an intense dark ruby and the nose
develops a more complex aroma that can include hints of
cinnamon, chocolate, liquorice, flowers, black fruits, herbs
and even woods such as oak. The taste is subtle, round and
full, it loses its sharpness and develops a longer and
smoother finish. Vranec takes exceptionally well to oak and
bottle aging, which is often quite necessary to tame its
intense blend of tannins and acidity. Due to its harmonious
nature, it combines well with other grape varieties such as
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It is recommended to be served
at room temperature and is an excellent compliment to smoked,
cured or grilled meats, salads, and strong flavoured mature
cheeses.

The word Vranec means strong black and powerful horse
(black stallion), this is why wine made from and named after
this variety of grape is associated with strength, potency
and success. Vran also means raven coloured or black, this is
because red wine is also known as black wine in many South
Slavic languages.