Albanian wine
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The wine of Albania is characterized by its unique sweetness and indigenous varieties. Albania produced an estimated 17,500 tonnes of wine in 2009.[1] The geographic elevation of Albania makes it a perfect setting for wine production. During communism, the production area expanded to some 20,000 hectares (49,000 acres).[2] The Albanian wine industry is striving to re-establish an international presence in line with its long reputation as a quality wine producer.
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History [edit]
Antiquity [edit]
Albania has one of Europe's longest histories of viticulture.[2] Ancient Roman writer Pliny describes Albanian wine as "very sweet or luscious" and refers to it as "[taking] the third rank among all the wines".[3] Albanian families are traditionally known to grow grapes in their gardens for producing wine and Rakia.
Communism up to present [edit]
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Albanian wine held a reputation among foreigners for its distinct and good quality. During the communist rule, almost all plantations were dedicated to export.[2] After the collapse of communism, many new wineries were opened by expats returning home from Italy and other countries.
Wine regions [edit]
Albania is divided into four wine producing regions:[2]
- Western lowland,
- Central hilly region
- Eastern sub mountainous region
- Highlands
Wineries [edit]
Some of the most important wineries (Albanian: kantina) in Albania include Rilindja, Skenderbeu, Çobo, Luani, Bardha, Arberi, Sara, Vintage, Kardinal, and Kokomani.
Preferences [edit]
According to Nasse and Zigori (1968) the best native Albanian wine varieties are Debine (noir and blanche), Kallmet, Mereshnik, Mjaltez, Serine (rouge and blanche), Shesh i Bardhe, and Vlosh.[4] The best wine producing areas are around Berat, Korca, Tirana, Durres and between Lezha and Shkodra.[5]
See also [edit]
References [edit]
- ^ "Wine production (tons)". Food and Agriculture Organization. p. 28. Archived from the original on 20 May 2011. Retrieved 2011-04-18.
- ^ a b c d http://www.winealbania.com Wine Albania Portal
- ^ The Laws of Fermentation and the Wines of the Ancients. Bronson Press. p. 41. Retrieved 2011-04-10.
- ^ "The technology of wine making". Avi Pub. Co. p. 42. Retrieved 2011-04-10.
- ^ Albania. Bradt. p. 42. Retrieved 2011-04-10.
External links [edit]
- Wine Albania Portal
- Kallmet Municipality Official Website
- Albanian Association of Sommeliers
- Some Brands of Albanian Wine
