Serbian Wineries to Showcase at London Wine Fair 2025 with Award-Winning Wines
For the second consecutive year, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia and the Development Agency of Serbia are organizing the participation of Serbian companies at the national stand of Serbia at the upcoming London Wine Fair 2025, set to take place from May 19 to 21, 2025, at Olympia London, United Kingdom.
As one of the most prestigious trade events in the global wine industry, the London Wine Fair serves as a meeting point for top distributors, sommeliers, importers, and representatives of leading retail chains across the UK and Europe. With over 40 years of tradition, it attracts tens of thousands of trade professionals annually, offering exhibitors unparalleled opportunities for exposure and business development.
Serbia’s presence at the fair comes at a time when the country’s wine industry is gaining increasing international recognition. Serbian wines have garnered numerous awards at renowned competitions such as the Decanter World Wine Awards, Mundus Vini, and the International Wine Challenge, affirming their quality and craftsmanship on the global stage. This growing acclaim is matched by rising interest from wine lovers, critics, and professionals who are discovering the unique terroir, indigenous grape varieties, and centuries-old winemaking traditions of Serbia.
This year, the Serbian national stand (Booth No. B-50) will also feature a presentation of Wine Vision by Open Balkan, the regional wine fair that has quickly become a major platform for the Western Balkans’ wine industry. It highlights regional cooperation and showcases the best of Balkan viticulture.
The following Serbian wineries will be presenting their latest vintages and award-winning labels:
- DOJA Winery, Blace
- ŠAPAT Wine Atelier, Novi Slankamen
- ERDEVIK Winery, Erdevik
- DEURIĆ Winery, Mala Remeta
- VINČIĆ Winery, Šid
- ALEKSANDROVIĆ Winery, Topola
- PANJKOVIĆ Winery, Belgrade
- BT WINERY, Beška
- MATALJ Winery, Negotin
From bold reds and elegant whites to aromatic indigenous varietals like Prokupac and Tamjanika, Serbian winemakers are showcasing the depth, innovation, and authenticity that define the region’s winemaking potential. The London Wine Fair 2025 represents a unique opportunity for the international wine community to experience these hidden gems and connect with one of Europe’s most promising emerging wine regions.
Shenzhen, May 9, 2025 — The Wine Vision by Open Balkan initiative has returned to the prestigious Wine to Asia fair in Shenzhen, China, reaffirming its role as a key ambassador of Balkan viticulture and distillation. Held from May 9 to 11, the fair brings together over 500 exhibitors from more than 30 countries and attracts more than 20,000 industry professionals, including importers, distributors, and hospitality leaders from across Asia.
At the heart of this year’s participation is a strong regional showing from Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania, presenting more than 100 wine labels and 30 authentic Balkan brandies. The Wine Vision by Open Balkan pavilion offers visitors a sensory journey through the diverse terroirs, grape varieties, and distillation traditions of the region.
The official opening of the fair was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Representing the Republic of Serbia and the Wine Vision initiative, Danijel Nikolić, Assistant Secretary General of the Government of Serbia, inaugurated the three-day event, highlighting the strategic importance of the Chinese market and the continued collaboration between Wine Vision and its international partners, including Vinitaly.
A standout moment of this year’s showcase was the first-ever rakija masterclass held in Shenzhen, titled “The Spirit of Serbia – Rakija as Heritage, Craft, and Cultural Identity.” Led by acclaimed rakija expert Milan Zaric, the session offered Chinese guests a deeper understanding of rakija’s cultural significance in the Balkans—as a national drink, a symbol of hospitality, and a deeply rooted artisanal tradition.
“This is not just about tasting,” Zaric said. “It’s about experiencing a culture. Rakija carries with it the memory and identity of the people who craft it.”
Participants in the masterclass were introduced to several rakija varieties, each telling a story of its origin through flavor, aroma, and technique. The session further enriched the cultural dimension of the Wine Vision presence, underscoring the initiative’s broader mission to build bridges through shared heritage and craftsmanship.
With growing interest from Asian markets in authentic, high-quality products, Wine Vision by Open Balkan continues to create valuable pathways for export, partnership, and cultural exchange. The next edition of Wine Vision by Open Balkan is set to take place in Belgrade from November 22 to 25, 2025, promising an even larger gathering of global producers and buyers.
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Verona, Italy— April 2025— For the third consecutive year, the Wine Vision fair made a strong and flavorful impression at the prestigious Vinitaly fair in Verona. Nestled among some of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, the Wine Vision stand—representing Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania—stood out with its vibrant offerings of wines, rakijas, and traditional cuisine, drawing considerable attention from both international professionals and casual visitors.
This year’s presentation continued the fruitful collaboration between Vinitaly and Wine Vision by Open Balkan, a partnership that has grown deeper with each edition. The synergy between the two fairs not only provides a platform for regional producers to reach new markets but also enriches Vinitaly’s diversity by showcasing the cultural and viticultural richness of Southeast Europe.
“Wine Vision is more than just a trade fair—it’s a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and regional identity, and our winemakers and distillers have a lot to be proud of.” said Igor Luković, a wine critic, writer, journalist, and certified sommelier. “Being part of Vinitaly for the third year now reinforces the idea that Balkan has something truly special to offer and to amaze the world with, in terms of gastronomy,” remarked Uroš Urošević, hospitality consultant and an executive chef.
The 2025 stand featured an array of wines from Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania, highlighting native grape varieties but also the international grape varieties in the Balkans’ terroir, thus gaining additional attention from both professionals and casual visitors. Complementing the wine selection were rakijas— expertly crafted spirits made from fruits—along with a curated selection of traditional foods in a modern interpretation.
Attendees from across Europe and beyond crowded the Wine Vision’s stand throughout the fair, eager to sample the authentic flavors and discover up-and-coming labels. “It’s always a pleasure to reconnect with old friends from the industry here,” said a returning guest from Italy’s Friuli region. “But it’s just as exciting to meet new producers, especially those from the Balkans, where so much innovation and tradition coexist.”
The friendly, welcoming atmosphere and remarkable staff only added to its popularity. From spontaneous toasts with visitors to lively conversations between importers and winemakers, the Wine Vision booth was alive with the spirit of cooperation and celebration.
This ongoing presence at Vinitaly also reflects Wine Vision’s broader mission: to place the Balkans on the global wine map. Events like Vinitaly are a clear indication that Wine Vision will continue to promote cultural and economic connections both inside and outside the region.
There was a noticeable sense of achievement and anticipation for the future as the fair drew to a close. Producers, partners, and guests alike shared memories and contacts and raised their glasses to continued success.
“Each year, we come back with more confidence, more recognition, and more love from the crowd,” Stevan Rajta, the president of the Association of Winemakers and Winegrowers of Serbia, reflected. “And each year, we leave inspired by new connections and friendships that remind us why we do this.”
With such strong momentum and growing global interest, it’s clear that Wine Vision’s presence at Vinitaly is becoming a beloved tradition—and a toast to the future of Balkan wine.
Verona is once again preparing to welcome the world’s finest winemakers, connoisseurs, and industry professionals as Vinitaly, one of the most prestigious wine exhibitions globally, returns for its latest edition, from 6th to 9th April.
Among the standout participants this year is Wine Vision, proudly representing the region for the third consecutive year, further solidifying the region’s growing presence on the international wine stage.
Vinitaly, held annually in Verona, Italy, is renowned as a premier event that brings together leading figures from the wine industry, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and market expansion. With thousands of exhibitors and visitors from all over the world, the fair serves as an exceptional platform for countries to showcase their wine heritage and innovation.
The collaboration between Wine Vision and Vinitaly has flourished, with each passing year strengthening ties between the region’s winemakers and the global wine community. This growing partnership underscores the region’s dedication to high-quality production and its ambition to further establish itself as a significant player in the industry. At this year’s Vinitaly, Wine Vision, spearheaded by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, promises an exceptional presentation, highlighting the best of the region’s wine culture.
Visitors to the Wine Vision stand in the international pavilion will have the unique opportunity to engage with some of the region’s most acclaimed sommeliers. Accompanying the wine experience, top-tier chefs will take center stage, showcasing Balkan’s rich and diverse culinary heritage with carefully curated dishes that elevate the wine-tasting journey. We are bringing an extraordinary display of traditional and contemporary gastronomy, featuring locally sourced ingredients, artisanal cheeses, and delicacies designed to pair harmoniously with autochthonous wines.
Last but not least, master distillers will introduce the international audience to the refined world of rakija and spirits, completing the sensory journey through Serbia’s and the region’s beverage craftsmanship.
With its reputation for attracting considerable attention and enthusiasm from wine lovers, industry professionals, and media alike, Wine Vision’s presence at Vinitaly promises to be a highlight of the event. As Serbia and the region continue to establish themselves as key players on the global wine map, their showcase at Vinitaly stands as a testament to dynamic growth, quality, and passion for winemaking.
Serbian wineries and distilleries made a strong impression at the International Wine and Spirits Fair in Luzhou, China, one of the most prestigious events in the industry. This participation of 17 wineries and distilleries, supported by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, marks an important step in strengthening Serbia’s presence in the global market, particularly in Asia, where the demand for high-quality wines and spirits is on the rise.
The Luzhou fair, known for attracting key players from the Asian and global wine and spirits industry, provided an excellent platform for Serbian producers to showcase their products. With a growing appreciation for premium and unique beverages in China and other Asian markets, Serbian wines and spirits have the potential to carve out a significant niche. The region’s rich winemaking tradition, diverse grape varieties, and ever-growing production standards are strong selling points that resonate well with international buyers.
The presence of Serbian wineries and distilleries at the event is part of a broader strategy to expand exports and establish long-term partnerships with distributors and connoisseurs in Asia. Market trends indicate a rising interest in European wines, particularly those with a distinctive character and heritage. Serbian producers, with their blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques, are well-positioned to meet this demand.
By engaging with industry experts, sommeliers, and importers, Serbian producers gained valuable insights into market expectations and potential collaboration opportunities. This engagement is expected to lead to increased recognition and export growth for Serbian wines and spirits in the coming years.
As Serbia continues to enhance its global trade presence, participation in international events remains a key strategy for expanding market reach. The strong interest shown by Asian buyers at the Luzhou fair reaffirms the potential for Serbian wines and spirits to become a sought-after choice among consumers in the region, paving the way for future growth and collaboration.
The Serbian Chamber of Commerce took another big step in promoting Serbian wines on the international stage by organizing the country’s debut participation at the “Wine Warsaw Expo 2025,” an international wine fair held in Warsaw, Poland, from March 11-13, 2025.
This marks one of many international trade events at which Serbian winemakers and distillers showcased under a national stand of Serbia, offering an invaluable opportunity to present their products to new markets, promote existing ones, and foster crucial business connections. The Serbian Chamber of Commerce hopes that the event will help enhance the global positioning of Serbian wines and further boost overall export efforts.
Poland, one of Europe’s largest markets, offers promising potential for Serbian wineries. As the wine scene in Poland continues to grow, there is increasing demand for innovative and unique wines, particularly those from regions not traditionally associated with winemaking, such as Serbia. This makes the Warsaw Wine Expo an ideal platform for Serbian wineries to establish presence in the Polish market and further develop their presence in the region.
The event represents an exciting milestone for Serbian winemakers and distillers, who are increasingly gaining recognition for their distinctive wines. By taking part in this prestigious international exhibition, Serbia aims to solidify its position as a noteworthy wine producer in the global market.
Mark your calendars! Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair is set to take place from November 22 to 25, 2025, in Belgrade, Serbia. This fourth in a row event will bring together the best of the wine world, distillers and culinary artists.
Wine Vision by Open Balkan established itself as one of the most prestigious wine, food, and tourism fairs in the region, showcasing exceptional wines, fostering business connections, and promoting the Open Balkan initiative’s mission of regional cooperation.
With its fourth edition, the fair is poised to surpass expectations yet again, offering industry professionals and attendees an unparalleled experience and networking opportunities. The event will feature a diverse lineup of wineries, winemakers, sommeliers, and industry experts from across the Open Balkan countries—Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania—as well as international participants.
The 2025 Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair’s program promises an array of activities and attractions, including:
Wine, and Distillate Exhibitions, a vast selection from established and emerging producers, with opportunities to taste and purchase unique vintages. As the crown even, best in their respective categories will receive Open Balkan Wine Trophies, and Open Balkan Rakija Trophies.
Masterclasses and Workshops that will gather world-renowned sommeliers, wine critics, and winemakers, who will deliver educational sessions designed for both enthusiasts and professionals.
Business Networking Events that will foster new connections with industry leaders, distributors, manufacturers and professional buyers in a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere.
Culinary Competitions and Pairings, enjoy exquisite food and wine pairings that showcase the best of regional and international gastronomy, and get to know the best restaurants, and amazing up-and-coming chefs in the region.
Save The Date
Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair is an event you won’t want to miss. Save the date and join us in Belgrade from November 22 to 25, 2025.
Stay tuned and follow us on social media for more information and updates on the application process for Wine Vision 2025.
From the very beginning of Wine Vision, there is a special segment of the fair which both, completes and enriches the entire experience of everyone who stepped foot in this fair, and that is Food Vision. Held as part of the Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair from November 22-24 at the Belgrade Fair, brought the region’s culinary artistry and future gastronomic stars into the spotlight. Under the inspiring slogan, “Confluence of Tastes,” the event celebrated emerging talent, innovative culinary traditions, and international excellence in the food and hospitality industry.
A Grand Opening with Notable Figures
The event commenced with speeches from Danijel Nikolić, Assistant Secretary General of the Government of Serbia, Fabricio Andreuci, Deputy Permanent Representative of UNDP Serbia, and Nikola Biševac, President of the Junior Chefs Club. The competitive and educational program was inaugurated by celebrated chef and creative director Tomaž Kavčić, underscoring the festival’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Spotlight on Young Talent: Junior Chef Competition
A highlight of the event was the Junior Chef Competition, which showcased the skills of chefs and culinary teams under 25 years old. Judged by an international panel of experts, including Alan Coxon (UK), Gianluca Tomasi (Italy), and Daniel Schade (Germany), competitors were tasked with preparing a modern take on traditional dishes.
And here are the winners of this year’s competition in all categories:
Best Young Chef 2024: Milana Čugalj
Runners-Up: Andrej Hrenek (2nd) and Sara Drobnjak (3rd)
Top Culinary Team: Team “Sharp,” followed by “Oui Chef” and the University of Hospitality School from Belgrade.
Awards were presented by notable officials, including Husein Memić, Minister of Tourism and Youth, and Jelena Begović, Minister of Science and Innovation.
Masterclasses and International Expertise
The event featured a series of engaging masterclasses and workshops. Alessandro Negrini, Michelin-starred chef, dazzled audiences with his culinary expertise, while Cesare Battisti and Gabriele Zanata shared secrets of Italian cuisine. Special star-guest was also Enrico Derflinger, who enchanted audience with his signature risotto dish that he made for the late Queen Elizabeth. Other notable mentions include Ivan Pažanin, and Filip Ćirić, each contributing unique insights to the culinary arts.
Special presentations, such as “The Game of Herons in Serbia” by Chinese chefs Zhiling Chen and Xianying Wu, added a global perspective. Meanwhile, Andrea Biadjini, a partner of the Michelin Guide, highlighted the synergy between food, wine, and tourism.
A Showcase of Excellence
The Gastro Theater offered visitors the chance to savor three-course menus from top restaurants across Serbia, Albania, and North Macedonia. Proceeds from the program were dedicated to humanitarian causes. Additionally, an exhibition of HORECA industry innovations attracted hospitality professionals, emphasizing the fair’s role as a hub for industry growth.
Diplomatic and Regional Support
The event welcomed key political figures, including Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević and North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, who greeted exhibitors and underscored the importance of culinary diplomacy in fostering regional unity.
Impact and Legacy
Food Vision by Open Balkan not only celebrated the richness of the region’s culinary heritage but also spotlighted the next generation of chefs poised to define its future. The event solidified its reputation as a vital platform for industry innovation and collaboration.
The Wine Vision Fair, a leading event celebrating the finest in spirits and winemaking, proudly unveiled the winners of the 2024 Rakija Trophy. This coveted award honors Serbia’s and the region’s most exceptional rakijas, spotlighting the craftsmanship, tradition, and mastery behind this iconic distilled beverage.
The competition this year saw an unprecedented number of entries. After rigorous blind tastings and evaluations by a panel of esteemed industry experts, the results were announced at a grand ceremony held on the final day of the fair in Belgrade.
The competition was held in four categories, and the winners are as follows:
- Plum Rakija Trophy:
Bronze:
Nikan Destilerija, Šljiva
Rubin AD, Prepečenica
Silver:
Destilerija Quzmyn , Quzmyn šljiva
Destilerija Gen SNEGI doo, Gen rakija šljive
Za dušu i prijatelje-Janić rakija doo, Rakija od šljive – suva šljiva
Destilerija Zavet doo, Rakija od šljive Zavet 5
Destilerija Bosiljčić , Bosiljčić Ekselencija – rakija od šljive 15
BB klekovača doo, Bela drinska
Destilerija Blagojević, Rakija od šljive Nasleđe Edition 5 Exclusive
Gold:
Destilerija Salaš naš doo , Naša sa salaša rakija od šljive
Destilerija Blagojević, Rakija od šljive Nasleđe Edition 8 Limited
Simex original doo, Vučija rakija od šljive barrique
Destilerija Zarić doo Kosjerić, Kraljica 7
Destilerija TOK, ,,Tok” šljivova prepečenica
Podrum Pevac SZTR , Desetka ,rakija od šljive
Podrum Dremina, Dremina Crvena ranka
Destilerija Mladenović , Sofija 0,7L Rakija od sljive 5 godina
Destilerija Despot doo , Despot šljiva
RB Global doo, Stara Sokolova sljiva 12
Aleksić prvi doo, Gružanska zlatna nit 0,75
Destilerija Bosiljćić, Bosiljčić Ekselencija-rakija od šljive stara 10 godina
Tim doo, Stara Pesma šljiva 12god
Podrum Želja, Šljivovica Želja 7
Destilerija TOK, ,,Zlatni Tok 05″ šljivova prepečenica
Pure fruit doo, Emperus 12
Destilerija Zavet doo, Rakija od šljive Zavet 10
Podrum Želja, Šljivovica Želja 12
Pure fruit doo, Emperus Privilege
Best ranked plum rakija: Gorda doo, Gorda XI Grand Cru.
- Quince Rakija Trophy:
Silver:
Destilerija Gen ,,SNEGI” doo, Gen rakija od dunje
Belgrade University Faculty of Agriculture, Radmilovac, Rakija od dunja – Dunjevača
Destilerija Quzmyn , Quzmyn dunja
Tim doo, Rakija stara pesma, Stara Pesma Dunja 5
Gold:
Simex original, Vučija rakija od dunje barrique
Destilerija Hubert 1924 doo, Hubertova rakija Dunja barrique
Destilerija Potpis , Potpis Dunja 05
Best ranked quince rakija: Destilerija Radost, Radost Dunja barik 5
- Grape Rakija Trophy:
Silver: Jakovlevski Family Winery and Distillery , Wine brandy ,,Simpatija”
Maksimilijan vinarija i destilerija, 23 lozova rakija
Dimitar Radnjanski, Single Barrel
Slogan Destilerija, Vinjak 007 Vinjak
Wine & Spirit Podrum Paradžik, Vinjak Moklishte
Gold:
BB Klekovača doo, Stari Vinjak XO
KITVIN Distillery, KAVADION
Popova Kula Winery, Lozova rakija Božica
Wine Cellar Popovi- Destilerija Tandem, Gentleman
Slogan Destilerija, Merak – Loza
Wine & Spirit Podrum Paradžik, Rakija Moklishka Z”ta
Wine Cellar Popovi- Destilerija Tandem, Bistra voda
Podrum Dremina , Dremina Cornus Vinjak
VERSUS Destilerija, Tradicionalna Zolta -Lozova rakija
Rubin AD, Vinjak 5
Podrum Pevac SZTR, PEVAC VINJAK XO
Monastery winery, Rakija Falanga, Zolta lozova rakija bela
Monastery winery, Rakija Falanga, zolta lozova rakija
Jakovlevski Family Winery and Distillery, Wine brandy 7ka
Best ranked grape rakija: Damjanov Wine & Spirits, Stara zolta – Lozova rakija
- Other fruit rakijas:
Silver:
RB Global doo, KAJSIJA LUX
Za dušu i prijatelje-Janić rakija doo, VOĆNA RAKIJA MALJ
Gold:
Belgrade University Faculty of Agriculture, Radmilovac, Rakija od Kajsije-Kajsijevača
Braća Tomasević doo, Rakija od divlje kruške
Destilerija Radost, KAJSIJA BARIK 5
Nikan Destilerija, Jabuka
Destilerija Hubert 1924 doo, Hubertova rakija Viljamovka
Braća Tomasević doo, Kalvados
Gorda doo, GORDA ARON
Destilerija Potpis, KAVADON JABUKA
Destilerija Salaš naš doo, NAŠA SA SALAŠA RAKIJA OD KRUŠKE VILJAMOVKE
Best ranked rakija from other fruits: Destilerija Zarić, OPSESIJA MALINA
A Growing Appreciation and Acknowledgement
This year’s Rakija Trophy reflected the growing appreciation for rakija as a premium spirit, and the remarkable leaps in quality that distillers show ear after year. Rakija is no longer just a regional specialty; it’s a drink that embodies craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation on an international stage.
As the curtains closed on the 2024 Wine Vision Fair, the winners toasted to a bright future for rakija and its place among the world’s finest spirits. Enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike can now look forward to discovering these award-winning rakijas, each offering a unique sip of excellence and tradition.
Belgrade, November 23 – The prestigious Open Balkan Wine Trophy, a cornerstone event of the Wine Vision Fair, celebrated excellence in winemaking today as it unveiled its 2024 winners. The competition showcased the finest wines from Serbia, North Macedonia, highlighting the region’s viticultural heritage.
Category Champions
The competition recognized excellence across several categories, and here are the winners of Open Balkan Wine Trophy:
- Best Red Wine: BELI KAMEN MERLOT 2019, TEMET WINERY, SERBIA
- Best White Wine: SIGNUM CHARDONNAY 2022, FRUG WINERY, SERBIA
- Best Rosé: URE ELEGANCE ROSE 2023, CHATEAU KAMNIK, NORTH MACEDONIA
- Best Sparkling Wine: TRIJUMF ROSE SPARKLING 2019, ALEKSANDROVIĆ WINERY, SERBIA
- Trophy for the Best Red Wine from an Indigenous Variety: VRANEC “TERROIR” GRAND RESERVA 2020, CHATEAU KAMNIK, NORTH MACEDONIA
- Trophy for the Best White Wine from an Indigenous Variety: GRAŠAC GRAND FRU 2020, VINČIĆ WINERY, SERBIA
- Best Orange Wine: MOMA TRAMINAC 2023, BIKICKI WINERY, SERBIA
- Best Sweet Wine: TRI SUNCA TRAMINAC LATE VINTAGE 2019, FRUŠKOGORSKI VINOGRADI WINERY, SERBIA
- Best Fortified Wine: BERMET KROKAN 2012, STOJANOVIĆ WINERY, SERBIA
- National Trophy Albania: SHESH I BARDHE 2024, ENOFAMA WINERY
- National Trophy North Macedonia: BELA VODA RED 2021, TIKVEŠ CHATEAUX & DOMAINES
- National Trophy Serbia: “1903“ MERLOT 2016, DELENA WINERY
Judging Process
This year’s competition brought together more than one thousand wines from wineries across the Balkan region. The distinguished panel of judges, including Masters of Wine, such as Caroline Gilby and renowned sommeliers from across the globe, conducted blind tastings over three days to determine the winners.
The highly anticipated Wine Vision Fair 2024 launched today, marking one more significant milestone for the Balkan region’s wine industry. The event, held in Belgrade, brings together wine producers, distillers, experts, and enthusiasts from across the world. Third time in a row, Wine Vision delivers an exceptional showcase of the rich viticultural heritage, mastery of distillers, and culinary artists.
This year’s fair highlights the confluence of tastes, diversity, and quality, featuring participants from more than 38 countries, more than 650 exhibitors, and 10,000 labels. Exhibitors represent both established wineries and emerging boutique producers, distilleries, and restaurants, offering visitors an extensive sampling of regional wine craftsmanship.
Key highlights of the event include domestic and foreign wine experts, who will hold a series of masterclasses, workshops, and guided tastings. Masterclasses and workshops will be dedicated to the great terroirs of Serbia and the Balkans. Visitors will also get a chance to hear about marketing strategies in the wine business, creating the perfect wine list, and there will be space for stories about great wines and famous regions of the world—from France and Italy all the way to California.
The fair was officially opened by the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, the Prime Minister of Serbia, Miloš Vučević, the Prime Minister of North Macedonia, Hristijan Mickoski, the Serbian member of the Presidency of BiH, Željka Cvijanović, and the President of the Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, the Mayor of Ljubljana, Zoran Janković, ministers in the Government of Serbia, and via video Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.
In his speech, president Vučić said that Wine Vision is a testament to everyone working on it, to winemakers who prepare for months for this fair. He further noted that Wine Vision is now the third most important wine fair in the whole of Europe and that in two or three years it should become the second largest. By quality, by the number of exhibitors, and by the number of visitors, by all parameters.
The Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, highlighted that Western Balkan is increasingly being recognized as a world tourism brand, and Albania is very proud of its contribution to this. He said he believes that together, in this historic region, we can do more for ourselves united than we would achieve if we worked individually.
The Prime Minister of North Macedonia, Hristijan Micoski, said that his country is the leading exporter in the region in terms of liters per capita and that he believes Wine Vision will both strengthen the wine industry and open up new markets and opportunities for all participants.” He added that Wine Vision is a place for showcasing and tasting, but also a place for discussion, education, and cooperation. “It’s a place that will benefit us all in the long term,” Mickoski said.
The fair runs until 24 November, promising to be a landmark event in the region’s wine, distilling, and culinary industry calendars.