The journey continues: Podgorica hosts the 2nd Vranac Selection by CMB
The second chapter of the Vranac Selection by CMB is set to begin from 4-6 March 2026 at the prestigious Hotel Hilton Podgorica (Montenegro), reinforcing a long-term vision for the “Wine Peninsula” of Southeast Europe. After a successful first edition in North Macedonia, this professional evaluation has quickly established itself as the most significant platform for indigenous grape varieties in the region, focusing on identity, origin, and stylistic excellence.
The evaluation will be conducted by a panel of recognized tasters from the Balkans as well as international experts. These specialists hail from the United Kingdom (Caroline Gilby MW), Montenegro, the United States, Croatia, North Macedonia, Serbia, Belgium and Italy.
Around a hundred Vranac wines from Serbia, Bosnia, North Macedonia, Croatia, Kosovo, and Montenegro will be tasted blind during the event. The results will be announced on 12 March at vranacselection.com
The 2026 edition in Podgorica features a deep dive into the Pan-Adriatic wine context. A major highlight will be the professional masterclass led by Caroline Gilby MW, designed to decode the complex terroirs and diverse expressions of Vranac for our international jury.
The Vision for the 2nd Edition
Baudouin Havaux, CMB’s President: “Vranac is more than a grape; it is a world-class ambassador for Southeast European viticulture. And one of the primary missions of the CMB is to reveal high-quality wines to a global audience. Moving into this second edition, we are deepening our understanding of its heritage. The ‘New Old Wine World’ is no longer a concept, it is a reality that we are proudly presenting to the international market from the heart of Montenegro.”
Zvonko Herceg, Director of Vranac Selection by CMB: “The sheer diversity and long history of indigenous varieties in Southeast Europe form a lever powerful enough on their own. If producers unite and provide that lever with a firm and strategic fulcrum, we can elevate this Wine Peninsula decisively toward the very summit of the global stage.”
About the host: Montenegro
Podgorica, at the crossroads of rivers and mountains, stands as the vibrant heart of Montenegrin wine culture. The city lies steps away from legendary vineyard regions, where modern winemakers blend centuries-old wisdom with contemporary craftsmanship. The Hotel Hilton Podgorica provides an ideal venue: a premium setting that combines accessibility, hospitality, and world-class facilities for judges, producers, and guests.
Behind this event stands the National Sommelier Association of Montenegro, a dynamic force dedicated to elevating the country’s wine culture and professional standards. Through education, competitions, and international collaboration, the Association has become a cornerstone of Montenegro’s contemporary wine identity, one that honors tradition while embracing the future.
About the National Sommelier Association of Montenegro
Dedicated to advancing Montenegro’s wine culture, professional standards, and international recognition, the Association works in close partnership with regional winemakers, hospitality professionals, and international institutions to promote the unique heritage and contemporary excellence of Montenegrin wines.
About the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles | CMB
The CMB is one of the world’s most prestigious international wine competitions, renowned for its rigorous blind-tasting protocols, diverse judging panels, and commitment to identifying wines of genuine excellence. With a track record spanning three decades, CMB medals are recognized globally by producers, importers, retailers, and consumers as a mark of quality and authentic distinction.
Press Contact :
Benoît Carion
benoit.carion@vinopres.com
