COLOUR
Red
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2023
GRAPE
Vranec
PRODUCER
Tikveš Winery
REGION
Povardarie
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
Tannins
High
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Established in 1885, Tikveš Winery is the historic heart of winemaking in North Macedonia and the broader Balkan region. Deeply committed to highlighting indigenous varieties through modern, sustainable practices, the estate has become a benchmark producer. The 'Luda Mara' line takes its name from the wild Luda Mara River (meaning 'Crazy Mary'), which surges down from the Kožuf Mountains and flows directly through the town of Kavadarci and the Tikveš wine-growing region. This river has historically shaped the local landscape, depositing rich alluvial soils that feed the vines and impart a distinct mineral character to the fruit.
ALCOHOL
15.0%
AVG. PRICE
€18
STYLE
Classic
VEGAN
NO
SULPHITES
YES
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
16-18°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Named after the wild Luda Mara ('Crazy Mary') River, which flows directly through the Tikveš wine-growing region.
Fact 02
Vranec translates to 'strong black horse' or 'black stallion', reflecting the grape's powerful and robust character.
Fact 03
The 2023 vintage won a Gold Medal at the Balkans International Wine Competition (BIWC).
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking process for this single-varietal Vranec is designed to preserve fruit purity while managing the grape's naturally powerful structure. Grapes are harvested manually in 20 kg casks from mid-to-late September and immediately chilled to 6-7°C. Cold maceration is carried out at 8°C for two days to extract primary color and aromatics without harsh tannins. Fermentation and extended skin contact continue for 15 days inside 80 hl concrete vats at controlled temperatures of 26-28°C. The wine is then aged for 12 months in concrete vats and stainless steel tanks to maintain its vibrant varietal character.
