How do you pronounce Vranec?

Vranec is pronounced VRAH-nets.

Where does Vranec come from?

Vranec grows in Tikveš, North Macedonia.

What does Vranec taste like?

Expect blackberry, dark plum, cocoa, black pepper. Closest familiar reference: a bold, inky Cabernet or Syrah.

What wine is Vranec similar to?

If you usually drink Cabernet Sauvignon, Vranec is the underdog swap to try. Other lesser-known grapes in the same style: Alicante Bouschet, Plavac Mali, Maratheftiko.

Vranec — Underdog Grape Guide

Tasting profile: Blackberry and overripe dark cherry over a savory, almost gamey base, with velvety tannin and enough acidity to keep the weight honest.
Where it grows: Tikveš, North Macedonia
Explore the Western Balkans field guide
Where to buy: For specific bottles and where to buy them, read the deep dive.

Keep exploring

The region

Tikveš, North Macedonia

If you like

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wines like Vranec

Alicante Bouschet Plavac Mali Maratheftiko Pinotage

Vranec: common questions

What wine is Vranec similar to?: If you usually drink Cabernet Sauvignon, Vranec is the underdog swap to try. Other lesser-known grapes in the same style: Alicante Bouschet, Plavac Mali, Maratheftiko.

Read the deep diveVranec: North Macedonia's Inky, Full-Bodied Red

JOIN THE PACK

Whatever you drink now, there's an underdog you'd like more.

One overlooked wine at a time: what it tastes like, the famous one it can replace, and the catch. Free.

Or peek at ten to start with →