Lastar Winery builds its identity on the unique terroir of the Levač region (southern part of the Šumadija region, central Serbia), characterized by its geographical location, rich vinicultural soil, and long wine tradition. The first record of grape cultivation in this area dates back to 1555, documented by the diplomat Han Deršvam. Levač is a region where vines have been cultivated since ancient times. It belongs to the area of the Three Morava rivers. The vineyards are located on the northwestern slopes of Mount Juhor and in the upper part of the Lugomir river basin, with the entire valley bordered by the Gledić Mountains on one side and Juhor on the other. Lastar Winery was established in 2013 and is one of the most modern wineries in Serbia. The equipment used in the winery represents the pinnacle of market offerings (Bucher-Vaslin, Ganimede), while the wooden barrels of 228 and 500 liters are produced by renowned French coopers. Currently, we own 32 hectares of productive vineyards, which will continue to expand in the future. Our own vineyards, as well as the winery building itself, are located in the micro-location Gaj, within the fields of the village Sekurič. Besides young vines, the winery also has mature plantings aged between 20 and 45 years. Detailed analyses of over 300 samples taken from the site show that the soil in Lastar’s vineyards is predominantly clayey, with a high proportion of limestone and minerals and a series of rocky layers of various origins and compositions in the deeper layers. The selection of grape varieties, imported from France (Richter FR), was carried out in consultation with leading French and domestic pedologists. The climate of the location is moderate, with always cool nights, which extends the ripening period of the grapes, allowing them to slowly accumulate aromas, resulting in wines that are ultimately elegant, distinctly fruity, and complex. Given the similarity to the Burgundy terroir, it is not surprising that the varieties that yield the best results here are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and the indigenous Muscat variety, Tamjanika.
In a short period, we have become one of the most awarded Serbian wineries. Our first accolades came from Mundus Vini 2016 for Chardonnay Lastar 2015. The latest prestigious awards were received at Mundus Vini 2020, for the best wine in Serbia, Sauvignon Viognier 2017. Pino Triangl is the highest-rated Serbian Pinot at Decanter, and at the Balkan Wine Championship BIWC 2021, our Chardonnay was chosen as one of the two best Chardonnays in the Balkans (Double Gold Medal, 95 pts). Our Tamjanika has been recognized as the best on the market in all relevant competitions in recent years. More information can be found on our website www.vinarijalastar.com.