Host 2023 : The Balkans
A dynamic wine region
Bosnia, Croatia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Bulgaria. They all offer unexpected delights for wine lovers
From smooth and refreshing to full-bodied and full-bodied, Balkan wines offer a variety of flavors, as well as some indigenous varieties as Vranec, sure to enchant the traveling wine connoisseur
About the host region
The Balkans
The Balkan wine story is a kind of a fairy tale. Surrounded by seven seas on three sides and two rivers from the north, the peninsula preserves a rich treasure trove of indigenous grape varieties.Vast plains along the rivers, hidden valleys encircled by high mountains, as well as an extensive coastline with islands create a tapestry of exceptional wine growing locations and a wide range of grape varieties, resulting in high diversity of wine styles. In the heart of the Balkans, Vranec reigns supreme, offering wines that are defiant, untamed, and reflective ofthe Balkan spirit.
Into the deep blue
Unique to the region, there are thousands of cenotes in the Yucatán. Filled with crystal-blue fresh water, these otherworldly sinkholes are stunning to see, whether deeply subterranean, or above ground framed by vibrant jungle. Perfect for a refreshing swim, cenotes were also revered by the Maya (cenote means “sacred well”) and no trip to Yucatán State would be complete without visiting at least one.
Wines of Macedonia.
The official host of the event is the Association “Wines of Macedonia - WoM”. WoM is a non-governmental organization that unites the 14 largest export-oriented wineries from North Macedonia and supports all wineries within the country in cooperation with the Association of Family Wineries, and other numerous institutions. The primary mission of WoM is to promote the quality and reputation of Macedonian wines all over the world. Additionally, WoM plays a vital role in facilitating the interprofessional exchange of knowledge, global wine production practices, as well as monitoring wine trends.
Serving as the guiding light in the creation of North Macedonia’s wine strategy, WoM is also the initiator of “Vranec World Day - VWD”, a highly important event dedicated to Vranec wines regardless of where they are produced. The first edition of VWD was organized in 2019, making this year the 5th edition of the event. In 2022, WoM successfully expanded the organization of VWD to 5 countries around the world and the event garnered international recognition.
“If you want to get to know a nation well, sit at their table and drink their wine.”
About the host city, Skopje.
Skopje is a wine destination because of the quality of its wine. The region produces a wide variety of wines, including reds, whites, and roses, each with a unique flavor and aroma. Some of the most popular grape varieties grown in Skopje include Vranec, Temjanika, and Zilavka.
History and traditions
Skopje's wine culture is also closely tied to its history and traditions. Winemaking has been a part of the region's culture for thousands of years, and many of the wineries in Skopje have been passed down through generations of families. Wine is also an important part of many Macedonian celebrations and festivals, and the launch of the Vranec Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles is the best proof of this.
Join the competition
Registering online is the easiest way to enter your wines. Our team will guide you through the registration process.