Macedonian Wines from Tikveš

Macedonia? Formerly part of Yugoslavia, right? Now officially known as the Republic of North Macedonia? Correct! Also, the classical era kingdom that gave us Alexander the Great, for our collective information.

In wine terms, Macedonia flies under the radar. Yet, it shouldn’t. Neighbouring and nearby countries are well known for their wines: Greece; Bulgaria; Romania; Serbia; Croatia – for example. So, why should Macedonia not be known to produce wines? This evening will reveal to us the reality of the fine wines produced by one company in this landlocked country.

Tikveš is based in the wine region of the same name. The accent over the final letter of the name means that both are pronounced ‘Tikvesh’. The company is now 140 years old. Therefore, it survived the years of communist rule – although it was slightly less intensive in Yugoslavia than in countries more heavily controlled by the USSR.

The grape varieties grown in Macedonia are predominantly their own indigenous ones. However, some international (French) varieties do also appear.

Luca Rowe, the Glasgow rep for Hallgarten and Novum Wines, will lead us through the range of Tikveš’ wines that they stock. He should also be able to assist with pronunciation! (How does one deal with the likes of Vranec, Smederevka or Kratošija, for example?)

If you’ve never heard of Macedonian wines before, you are not alone! Its wine-producing history is long – over 2,000 years, at least. Yet, it is the last country in Europe that is still to be ‘discovered’, in terms of its vinous delights.

So, come and discover Macedonian wine for yourself. You will not be disappointed. We look forward to seeing you.