Vranac

Vranec ( _mk. 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.