Vranec, pronounced "Vrah-netz", is a robust and indigenous grape variety native to the regions of Macedonia, Kosovo and Montenegro. Most wine connoisseurs may not be familiar with this grape, as it’s not as widespread as the reds and whites from Western Europe. However, that doesn’t mean it is not worth your attention – quite the reverse, in fact.
Vranec grapes are teardrop-shaped with deep, thick, glossy skins which produce a wine with a rich, dark ruby hue. This wine variety is renowned for its strong fruit-driven profile. It features predominant flavours of sour cherry and blackberry, often with a subtle hint of cinnamon or clove. The rich, fruity depth of Vranec wines, accompanied by the soft tannins, makes them easily drinkable offerings that pair wonderfully well with red meat or game.
A major feature of Vranec is its impressive ageing potential. Over a few years, the powerful fruit flavours mellow out, the tannins soften, and the wine develops a complex bouquet of flavours including black fruit, spice, and sometimes a slightly smoky character. This endows Vranec with the ability to mature with elegance and gives scope for intriguing nuances to emerge over time.
With a bold structure, intense aromas and a distinctively smooth finish, Vranec provides a glimpse into the unique viticulture of the Balkans. Its authenticity and sheer quality render it a hidden gem among wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts.
Recent years have seen a focused effort by wine growers and vintners to modernise the production and distribution of Vranec, leading to increasingly greater international recognition for this distinct genre of wine. If you haven't yet tried wines made from the Vranec grape, you are missing out on an admirable representative of the diverse world of wine. As Vranec becomes more readily available around the world, one can only anticipate that this grape is set to tantalise the taste buds of a whole new audience.
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