A Journey Through the Vineyards of Montenegro

The allure of Montenegro’s wine country had long been whispered among my fellow connoisseurs, and it was with great anticipation that I embarked on the Montenegro Wine Road Tour. The journey began with a visit to the renowned Ćemovsko field, a vineyard that sprawls across 2,300 hectares, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and Skadar Lake. As the touristic train meandered through the rows of vines, I was struck by the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape. The air was filled with the scent of ripening grapes, a prelude to the delights that awaited us.

Our first stop was the wine cellar “Šipčanik,” a marvel of engineering and history. Once an underground hangar for the Yugoslav National Army, it now serves as a sanctuary for some of Montenegro’s finest wines. Descending into the depths of the cellar, I was enveloped by the cool, humid air, a perfect environment for the aging of wine. Here, we were treated to a tasting of three exquisite wines, each paired with bruschette topped with Njeguški cheese, grilled to perfection with olive oil and rosemary. The Vranac, a robust red, stood out with its deep, velvety texture and notes of dark fruit and spice, a testament to the rich terroir of the region.

The Heart of Montenegrin Wine

Leaving the grandeur of Ćemovsko field behind, our journey took us to the quaint village of Nudo, home to the Dabović Winery. This small, family-run establishment is nestled in the basin on the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, surrounded by high stone hills and lush green fields. The winery’s rustic charm was immediately apparent, with its stone and wood decor evoking a sense of timeless tradition.

Here, we were welcomed with open arms and a tasting that was as generous as it was enlightening. The wines of Dabović are a celebration of the land, each sip transporting me to the epic landscapes of Montenegro. The tasting included a selection of brandy, herbal liqueurs, and wines, each accompanied by local delicacies such as prosciutto, cheese, homemade bread, and honey. The highlight was a sumptuous lunch featuring goulash, roasted meats, and a selection of homemade cakes, each dish a reflection of the region’s culinary heritage.

A Celebration of Tradition and Taste

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the richness of the experience. The Montenegro Wine Road Tour is more than just a journey through vineyards; it is an immersion into the heart and soul of Montenegrin culture. The passion and dedication of the winemakers, the beauty of the landscape, and the exquisite flavors of the wines and food all combined to create an unforgettable adventure.

For those who have followed my travels through the vineyards of France and Italy, Montenegro offers a unique and compelling addition to the world of wine. The Montenegro Wine Road Tour is a testament to the power of tradition and the enduring allure of the vine. It is a journey that I wholeheartedly recommend to any lover of wine and culture, a chance to savor the essence of Montenegro in every glass.