A milestone for biodynamic wine
Jablan Winery has become Montenegro’s first Demeter-certified winery. Located on the shores of the UNESCO-protected Lake Skadar, the family-run estate combines traditional winemaking with a strong commitment to ecological farming.
Rooted in family tradition
Founded by Borislav and Angelika Jablan during the COVID-19 pandemic, the winery continues a family tradition of winemaking in the village of Rvaši. The estate builds on 70-year-old vineyards that were already cultivated without using pesticides, chemicals, or heavy machinery, which formed the basis for their transition into biodynamic farming.
Their guiding question was not how to scale quickly, but how to farm in a way that truly respects the unique landscape they inherited through obtaining organic certification.
Commitment to biodynamic farming
Inspired by biodynamic practices worldwide, the Jablans began their Demeter certification journey in 2022 and have since fully embraced the Demeter Standard.
Today, their approach reflects a fully integrated biodynamic system from vineyard to cellar.
Wines reflecting terroir and craft
In the cellar, Jablan Winery follows a low-intervention philosophy with spontaneous fermentation, temperature-controlled processes, and ageing in traditional vessels such as qvevri and oak barrels.
The focus is on indigenous Montenegrin grape varieties, including Vranac, Kratošija, and Žižak, producing expressive reds, structured orange wines, and fresh rosés that reflect the character of Lake Skadar.
International recognition
The winery’s dedication has already been recognised internationally at the Balkan International Wine Competition:
- KOTSO 2024 – Gold Medal
- DODIR 2025 – Silver Medal
A new chapter for biodynamic wine in Montenegro
Achieving Demeter certification is a significant milestone for Jablan Winery and for biodynamic viticulture in Montenegro overall, demonstrating how traditional knowledge, ecological commitment, and careful craftsmanship can come together to create wines deeply rooted in nature’s rhythms.
Contact: Holly – Meet the Team
Copyright: Jablan Winery
