Chris from Skopje
Kartal Winery Skopje
Family winery near Skopje
Kartal Winery sits just outside Skopje, close enough for an easy afternoon escape, far enough for the air to slow down. The family story reaches back to around 2000. My first taste there was a 2005 Cabernet, honest and promising. The clear voice came from the brothers Filip and Jordan. They are warm, direct, and low-key, and their hospitality sets the tone the moment you step in.
That care shows in the glass. Kartal makes wines that punch above their weight. Prices stay fair, quality climbs high. The bold vintage Vranec at 18% says Macedonia in one sip, ripe fruit, sun, and a long finish. This character comes from focused picking, clean fermentations, and a style that lets the grape speak.
Power sits beside finesse. They have launched a traditional method Stanushina rosé, a local answer with fine bead and red-berry lift, easily above your average prosecco and strong beside proper Champagne.
Visits feel part tasting room, part family kitchen. Book a tasting, tour the cellar, share a charcuterie board, and work through flights that can reach ten or more wines. Whites with texture, reds from supple to thunderous, reserves with polish, and everyday bottles that overdeliver.
Awards follow this kind of work, including Citadelles du Vin gold in Bordeaux. Still, the headline is the conversation with Filip and Jordan and the glass in your hand. Short version: generous, honest, proudly Macedonian wines, standout value, real hospitality. Come for the tour, stay for the flight, leave with bottles you will remember.
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