🇲🇪🍷 Vranac Wines - Exploring Beyond Our Norm

Vranac Wines - Exploring Beyond Our Norm

Since October 5th marked Vranac World Day, we knew it was the perfect opportunity to step outside our usual wine comfort zone and explore something bold and new — Montenegrin Vranac!

We love trying wines from different regions, and this one immediately caught our attention. While Vranac isn’t as commonly found as other reds, it’s often compared to Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah for its structure, depth, and dark fruit character.

Fun fact: Vranac (also spelled Vranec) is pronounced “vr-net’s”. In the Balkans, this wine’s name carries a lot of meaning. “Vranec” translates to “strong black” or “powerful horse” — think of a black stallion — symbolizing strength, potency, and success. The word “Vran” also means raven-colored or black, which is why red wine is sometimes called “black wine” in the region. So when you sip a Vranac, you’re literally tasting a wine with power and presence!

If you enjoy Cabernet or Syrah, we definitely recommend giving Vranac a try — it’s impressive, distinct, and a great way to surprise your wine-loving friends. 🍷

It wasn’t the easiest wine to get our hands on, but we managed to order four bottles to make the shipping worth it — and trust us, it was worth every sip.

Wine Review: Plantaže 2022 Crnogorski Vranac

• Region: Podgorica, Montenegro
• Producer: 13. Jul Plantaže
• Style: Premium Dry Red Wine
• ABV: 13.5%
• Price: Around $18–20 (plus international shipping)

In the Glass: A deep ruby hue with violet edges — youthful, bright, and inviting.

Aromas: Fresh black cherry, plum, and wild herbs, layered with a touch of spice and cocoa.

On the Palate: Medium to full-bodied with juicy blackberry, red currant, and smooth tannins. The balanced acidity makes it lively and food-friendly, while a subtle spice lingers on the finish.

Pairing Notes 🍽️:

• 🍝 Tomato-based pastas (especially with sausage or roasted peppers)
• 🍗 Grilled chicken or lamb skewers
• 🧀 Semi-firm cheeses like Manchego, Gouda, or Havarti

Our Take: A wonderful introduction to Vranac — approachable yet full of personality.

Wine Review: Plantaže Vranac Pro Corde

• Region: Podgorica, Montenegro
• Producer: 13. Jul Plantaže
• Style: Reserve Dry Red Wine
• ABV: 14%
• Price: Around $25–28 (plus shipping)

In the Glass: Deep garnet with rich legs that cling to the glass — promising intensity and depth.

Aromas: Layers of blackberry jam, black currant, toasted oak, tobacco, and dark chocolate.

On the Palate: Full-bodied, smooth, and elegant. Notes of ripe dark fruit, spice, and vanilla glide over a backbone of firm tannins. The finish is long and satisfying, showing off the wine’s structure and polish.

Pairing Notes 🍽️:

• 🥩 Ribeye steak or braised short ribs
• 🍖 Lamb shank or beef stew
• 🧀 Aged cheeses (Parmesan, Pecorino, or aged cheddar)
• 🍄 Mushroom risotto or truffle pasta

Our Take: Elegant, bold, and deeply satisfying — Pro Corde (“for the heart”) truly lives up to its name.

Final Thoughts

These two bottles showcase the depth and diversity of Vranac, Montenegro’s pride grape. The Crnogorski Vranac is vibrant, easy-drinking, and expressive — perfect for everyday enjoyment — while the Pro Corde offers a refined, cellar-worthy side of Vranac that’s perfect for special dinners.

They might be a little hard to find, but once you do, you’ll be glad you stocked up. These wines prove that exploring new regions can lead to unexpected favorites — and that great wine doesn’t always need a big price tag.

Sip like a black stallion — bold, powerful, and unforgettable.