Founded in 1885, Tikves Winery has witnessed the independence movements in the Balkans, two world wars, and one cold one. Yet, through it all, they have continued to make wines from grapes native to the region: Vranec, Plavec, Kratosija, Smederevka, all originated in the Caucuses and indigenous to the Balkan peninsula.

With the fall of communism and the independence of The Republic of North Macedonia, this historic estate was privatized, and new investments were made to update the vineyard and cellar practices. Sustainable farming has replaced industrial agriculture, yields have been reduced, and indigenous varieties have been preserved and replanted. Philippe Cambie, the late french winemaker, assisted with the modernization of their cellars and practices by utilizing temperature-controlled stainless steel for fermentations with concrete and French oak barrels for aging.

This profile and tasting notes were edited from the European Cellars website, along with the pictures used. For more information please visit: European Cellars.