Albanian wine is not just a part of local gastronomy; it also holds a significant place in the millennia-old story of this country. Winemaking in Albania has deep roots that can be traced back to the era of the Illyrians, long before Roman rule. Archaeological findings confirm wine production in the area of present-day Albania as far back as antiquity, placing the country among the oldest wine regions in Europe.
The popularity of wine in Albania comes from several factors. The country enjoys favorable climatic conditions, where the Mediterranean climate blends with continental influences. This allows for the cultivation of a wide range of grape varieties. Albania boasts unique indigenous varieties that are rarely found beyond its borders.
Shesh i Zi for red and Shesh i Bardhë for white are considered national varieties, along with Kallmet, which is often compared to some of the most prestigious European grapes. Kallmet is regarded as one of the highest quality red varieties in the region and is often called the “king of Albanian wines.”
The history of Albanian winemaking includes periods of both flourishing and decline. After the ancient era came the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, during which winemaking faced various restrictions, especially for religious reasons. During communism, wine production in Albania was highly centralized and focused more on quantity than quality. After the fall of the communist regime in 1991, local winemakers began to revive traditional methods and modernize their production.
A focus on small family-run wineries, innovation, and a return to traditional grape varieties has led to a marked improvement in the quality of Albanian wines.
Compared to the major European wine countries such as France, Spain, or Italy, Albania remains a smaller player. Albanian wines are slowly gaining a reputation for being original and authentic.
There is also significant potential in the development of wine tourism, which attracts visitors to wine regions such as those around Berat, Shkodra, or Lezhë. In fact, on my very first night in Albania, I stayed at a small family-run winery myself myself.
Albanian wine is still finding its place on the European wine map. However, when paired with traditional Albanian cuisine, it already offers a pleasant gastronomic experience.
Cheers, and drink responsibly!
