The third Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair in Belgrade has solidified its reputation as a premier international event, uniting wine producers, distillers, culinary artisans, and enthusiasts from 38 countries.
With more than 650 exhibitors, 10,000 wine labels, and over 2,000 business meetings, the fair highlighted the region’s dynamic contribution to the global wine and gastronomy scene.
The event’s grand opening featured prominent regional leaders, including Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, and Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik, alongside other dignitaries. Their presence underscored the importance of regional collaboration in promoting the Open Balkan initiative.
Showcasing the Best Wines and Spirits
Awards for the best wines in 12 categories spotlighted the diversity and quality of Balkan winemaking. Albania’s Shesh i Bardhe 2024 from Enofama Winery, North Macedonia’s Bela Voda Red 2021 by Tikveš Châteaux & Domaines, and Serbia’s 1903 Merlot 2016 from Delena Winery earned national trophies.
In speciality categories, Serbia’s Beli Kamen Merlot 2019 by Temet Winery was named Best Red Wine, and North Macedonia’s Vranec Terroir Grand Reserva 2020 from Chateau Kamnik led the Indigenous red category. Serbia dominated white wine awards, with Signum Chardonnay 2022 from Frug Winery and Grašac Grand Fru 2020 by Vinčić Winery taking top honours in their respective categories.
Rosé wine, sparkling wine, and orange wine categories featured standout winners like North Macedonia’s Pure Elegance Rose 2023 from Chateau Kamnik, Serbia’s Trijumf Rose Sparkling 2019 by Aleksandrović Winery, and Moma Traminac 2023 from Bikicki Winery. The awards culminated with Tri Sunca Traminac Kasna Berba 2019 from Fruškogorski Vinogradi winning Best Sweet Wine and Bermet Krokan 2012 from Stojanović Winery claiming Best Fortified Wine.
Celebrating the Spirit of the Region
The Rakija Trophy honoured excellence in fruit distillation, with Serbia’s Gorda XI Grand Cru by Gorda Distillery emerging as the overall winner.
Other notable awards included Radost Dunja 5 Barrique from Podrum Radost for quince brandy and Želja 12 from Podrum Želja for plum brandy.
Food Vision: Culinary and Cultural Showcases
Running parallel to the wine fair, Food Vision by Open Balkan brought together leaders in gastronomy and food production. Highlights included the Best Young Chef Culinary Challenge, where Milana Čugalj claimed first place. Regional culinary artistry was celebrated through masterclasses, tastings, and displays of the region’s top dishes and specialities.
Fostering Global Partnerships
With delegations from 48 countries, including the UK, US, China, and Austria, the fair offered unmatched networking opportunities. Over 400 international buyers engaged in 2,000 business meetings, forging new connections and partnerships. The event also showcased the accomplishments of global wine destinations like France, Italy, and California, reinforcing its status as a hub for international collaboration.
Wine Vision by Open Balkan 2024 has once again proven the region’s capacity to excel on the global stage, blending tradition with innovation to leave a lasting impression on the international wine and culinary community.
