Montenegro’s wine industry has recently gained significant international recognition as local producers secured top honors at the “Vranac Selection by CMB” competition, held in Podgorica from March 4 to 6, 2026. The event was organized by the National Sommelier Association of Montenegro in collaboration with the esteemed Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (CMB).
This competition primarily focused on wines made from the Vranac grape variety, attracting participants from various regions and establishing Montenegro as a notable reference point for this traditional Balkan red wine.
The highest accolade of the event, a Grand Gold Medal, was awarded to Dimitrije Reserve 2017 from the winery Rade Rajković, which was also recognized as the global “Blend Revelation.” Another Grand Gold Medal was presented to “Stari Podrum Cuvee Terroir 2020,” produced by 13. jul – Plantaže, one of the largest wine producers in the Balkans, operating a vineyard that spans over 2,000 hectares near Podgorica.
These awards signify the utmost recognition within the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles judging framework, designated for wines achieving top scores from international tasting panels.
In addition to these top honors, several Montenegrin wineries received gold medals, reflecting the increasing competitiveness of the nation’s wine sector on an international scale. Gold medals were awarded to wines from Keković Estate, Vinarija Krgović, Vinarija Buk, Vinarija Zenta, and Vida Wines. Furthermore, 13. jul – Plantaže earned multiple gold medals for its premium offerings showcased at the event.
This recognition underscores the expanding diversity within Montenegro’s wine landscape, where smaller boutique wineries are now competing alongside established entities.
Hosting this competition has further solidified Montenegro’s status as the historical center for the Vranac grape, which is cultivated widely throughout Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, and parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Vranac Selection by CMB was specifically established to promote wines derived from this grape variety, recognized as one of Southeast Europe’s most distinctive red varieties. The event aimed to enhance global awareness of Vranac by bringing together international judges, sommeliers, and producers in Podgorica while supporting regional wineries in their export aspirations.
Over the past decade, Montenegro’s wine sector has experienced steady growth, merging large-scale production with an increasing number of boutique wineries that emphasize premium labels and terroir-focused production methods. The achievements at this competition reflect a broader regional trend where local grape varieties like Vranac and Kratošija are gaining traction among international wine critics and distributors seeking unique wines beyond traditional European markets.
For Montenegro, the global acknowledgment of its wineries is closely linked to tourism development. Wine tourism, vineyard visits, and culinary experiences have become integral components of the country’s tourism offerings, particularly around Skadar Lake and vineyards south of Podgorica.
The outcomes of the 2026 Vranac Selection competition signify more than mere accolades; they highlight Montenegro’s growing international presence in the wine industry and reinforce its ambition to establish its indigenous grape varieties within Europe’s recognized wine identities.
