For wine lovers, Albania is paradise. The country, with its good climate and strategic position near the Mediterranean Sea, is the perfect place for many grape varieties. Several wineries open their doors to visitors and offer guided tours for half the price of nearby neighbors. Read this wine lover’s guide to Albania, and discover the best wineries in the Land of the Eagles.​

Albania has one of the oldest wine-making traditions in Europe, dating back to the Bronze Age. During the Roman and Byzantine periods, the country’s wine production increased significantly, although under Ottoman rule there was a decline in production. During the communist dictatorship, there were several operating wineries and grape production sites handled only by the regime (not private owners). The most common varieties of indigenous Albanian grapes are Kallmeti, Shesh, Debin, Vranac and Vlosh, among others. The Land of the Eagles can be divided into four big wine regions, including the coastal plains, central hilly region, the eastern-sub mountainous region and the mountains.

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The dishes of Albania have their roots with the ancient Ottoman Empire. The combination of richly fertile land, proximity to the sea, and blurry cultural lines with their neighbours have culminated in a modern cuisine that is both diverse and simple. Modern day influences include Greece, Italy, and Turkey.

Meat and vegetables are the staple, along with heavy stews, pickled cabbage, feta cheese, breads, rice, and smoked meat. The most popular veg grown are eggplants, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives (which accompany most meals), and legumes.  Very Mediterranean indeed!  Vegetarians be warned.  There are a lot of salads in your future – luckily, there’s plenty of fresh produce to enjoy.