Venec Winery

In the sun-drenched south of North Macedonia, where the landscape rolls between vineyards and ancient stone roads, lies Venec Winery. Since 1956, this winery has nurtured the art of winemaking — with rare patience, meticulous attention to detail, and a love for the craft that can be felt in every bottle. Venec is more than a winery; it is a living tradition, passed down from generation to generation.

A History with Character

The roots of Venec run deep in the fertile soils of Dolni Disan, a village long renowned for its rich agricultural heritage. What began as a modest family venture grew, under the guidance of dedicated leadership, into a modern winery representing Macedonian winemaking on the global stage.

The current management, including Ilija Jancev and Kire Ristov, safeguards the balance between tradition and progress. They embody the philosophy that makes Venec unique: creating wine with soul — handcrafted, honest, and deeply connected to the land from which it comes.

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The Terroir

Venec cultivates around 300 hectares of carefully managed vineyards, spread across the hills surrounding Dolni Disan. This area, part of the historic Tikveš region, is considered one of the most promising wine-growing territories in Southeast Europe.

Here, warm Mediterranean days meet the cool nights tempered by the Vardar Valley. This contrast produces grapes with exceptional aromatic intensity, ripe tannins, and a natural balance that shines through in every wine. The sandy and clay-limestone soils contribute structure, depth, and finesse — a terroir that breathes both calm and strength.

Grape Varieties — the Soul of Venec

The winery elegantly combines the richness of indigenous Macedonian grapes with the finesse of international varieties. Every grape receives meticulous attention, as a large part of the harvest at Venec is still picked by hand.

Red Grapes

  • Vranec — the pride of Macedonia: intense, deep, and powerful, with aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plums, and a heartbeat full of energy.
  • Merlot — smooth, refined, and velvety, ideal for elegant blends.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon — structured and aromatic, with pronounced depth.
  • Shiraz / Syrah — spicy, full-bodied, and warm, with notes of pepper and dark chocolate.

White Grapes

  • Temjanika — aromatic, floral, and sensual; a wine that smells like a summer garden.
  • Grenache Blanc — fresh and mineral, with a subtle roundness.
  • Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio — classic, pure, and vinified with precision.

These varieties form the foundation of wines that express balance, character, and personality.

The Wines of Venec — Expressive, Layered, and Refined

The identity of Venec reveals itself fully in its different wine ranges, each with its own style yet always recognisable for its honest craftsmanship.

Classic Series

Fresh, approachable wines that clearly express the character of the region. Ideal for everyday enjoyment without compromising on quality or finesse.

Single Block Series

Wines from carefully selected plots vinified separately. These are expressive wines with depth, structure, and a distinct terroir profile — elegant, subtle, and perfectly suited for connoisseurs.

Orle & Reserve Lines

The crown jewels of Venec: powerful red wines aged in oak, developing into complex, mature expressions of Vranec, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon. Think aromas of ripe black fruit, cocoa, coffee, vanilla, and gentle spice.

More Information?

Would you like to discover more or receive personalised advice about our carefully curated wines? Feel free to contact us. Our enthusiastic and knowledgeable team is ready to help you find the Venec wines that best match your taste and preferences.

Whether you’re seeking a new favourite, a special bottle for a memorable occasion, or are simply curious about Macedonia’s rich winemaking traditions — we’re here to guide you.