From Skopje: Lazar & Chateau Sopot Wineries Visit & Tastings

Exploring North Macedonia’s Wine Scene: A Tour of Lazar & Chateau Sopot Wineries

If you’re curious about North Macedonia’s wine scene, this private tour from Skopje offers a fantastic way to experience it firsthand without the hassle of planning. The experience takes you through two of the country’s premier wineries—Lazar and Chateau Sopot—with guided tastings, a multi-course wine-paired lunch, and scenic drives through some of the most picturesque vineyard landscapes the region has to offer.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of authentic wine tastings, delicious local cuisine, and breathtaking views. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances education and indulgence, perfect for wine lovers and foodies alike.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour duration—at around six hours, it’s a full-day outing. While that’s great for enjoying wine culture, it may be a bit long for travelers with tight schedules. Still, for those wanting a relaxed, in-depth journey into North Macedonia’s wine traditions, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy wine and good food, and who appreciate a comfortable, private setting. It’s not designed for children or those with certain dietary restrictions, but for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to explore Macedonia’s vinicultural treasures, it’s a delightful choice.

Key Points

• Focused on quality: Visits two top-rated Macedonian wineries, Lazar and Chateau Sopot.
• Educational and tasting-rich: Includes guided tastings with expert explanations.
• Culinary highlight: Features two 5-course wine-paired gourmet lunches.
• Scenic journey: Offers picturesque drives through North Macedonia’s lush vineyard landscapes.
• Exclusive experience: Private group setting ensures personalized attention.
• Value for money: At $337, includes transport, tastings, and meals, making it a comprehensive package.

An In-Depth Look at the Wineries and What to Expect

Starting Point: Pickup & Transfer

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Skopje. The private transfer sets the tone for a relaxed day, with a driver who’s knowledgeable about the local wine region. The drive to each winery takes about 2 to 3 hours total, giving you time to enjoy the scenic views along the way.

First Stop: Winery Lazar

Founded in 2015, Lazar has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach combining Italian process technology with traditional Macedonian methods. With 22 wine labels, Lazar is especially celebrated for its pearl sparkling wines, crafted with high-quality equipment and strict quality control.

What you’ll experience here is more than just a tasting; it’s an immersion into Lazar’s winemaking philosophy. You’ll be introduced to their award-winning still and sparkling wines—sipping on some of the best in the country. The highlight is their 5-course gourmet lunch, which is included in the tour.

The lunch menu is thoughtfully paired with Lazar’s finest wines:
– A welcome glass of Pearl Sparkling Brut sets the tone.
– The first course, Lazar Salad, pairs with Grasevina White Wine.
– The second, Salmon Carpaccio, goes well with Pinot Grigio.
– The risotto with shrimp is complemented by Allure Grand Cuve, a white wine.
– The beef in dark sauce pairs beautifully with Erigon Kratosija red.
– Finally, a Cheesecake is served alongside Fortuna Rosé.

Guests consistently comment on the high quality of the lunch and the attentive explanations from guides—who might be wine experts or the winery’s staff—that help make each sip meaningful. One reviewer noted, “The wines were superb, and the pairing was spot on. It felt like a proper degustation experience.”

Transition: Scenic Drive & Vineyard Views

After Lazar, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the Macedonian countryside, with panoramic views of vineyards and rolling hills. This part of the tour underscores the country’s reputation for stunning natural landscapes and prime grape-growing conditions.

Second Stop: Chateau Sopot

Nestled between the Vardar River Valley and Lake Mladost, Chateau Sopot is a smaller, boutique winery with a history dating back to 2006. Covering 94 hectares of vineyards—entirely cultivated on-site—their focus is on producing both still and sparkling wines.

The estate offers a more hands-on experience—you can explore at your own pace, taste a selection of their finest labels, and learn about their winemaking philosophy: “Wine, Food, View,” which perfectly captures what they aim to deliver.

The tasting here is complemented by a 5-course wine-paired lunch, echoing the first, but with a different menu:
– Focaccia kicks off the meal.
– Caprese salad pairs with Povaradrec-Rhein Riesling.
– Beef carpaccio is matched with Sopot Cuvée Red.
– The bacon-wrapped plums feature Serbez-Roze.
– The rabbit with sauce of prosciutto and olives is paired with Pinot Noir Reserva.
– A final indulgence, cheesecake, is paired with Ubava-Temjanika.

Guests mention that the wines at Chateau Sopot are high-quality, with a focus on local grape varieties. One reviewer remarked, “The wines were smooth and flavorful, and the views from the vineyards were breathtaking. It’s a real hidden gem.”

Why the Experience Matters

This tour’s strength lies in the combination of guided tastings and scenic beauty. Knowing the stories behind each label, how the wines are made, and the careful pairing with gourmet food elevates the experience from just drinking wine to appreciating it.

The private group setting ensures you get attention from guides who really know their stuff, whether explaining the nuances of Macedonian grapes or the nuances of sparkling wine production.

The Value of This Tour

At $337 per group, this experience includes transportation, two gourmet lunches, guided tastings, and the chance to explore two distinctive wineries. When you compare this to organizing your own visits—booking transport, finding reputable wineries, and sourcing meals—the convenience and curated experience make this a worthwhile investment.

The inclusion of full meals and tastings at both wineries means you’re not just sampling a glass here and there; rather, you’re enjoying a full culinary and wine journey, which adds significant value.

While expenses at Chateau Sopot are on the clients (meaning you might pay a bit more if you indulge in extra wines or additional food), the core experience is well covered.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to adults who appreciate wine and good food, and who value comfortable, private transportation. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting an in-depth look at North Macedonia’s wine culture without the hassle of planning each detail.

It’s perfect for those looking to combine scenic drives with culinary delights and educational insights into Macedonian wines. However, it’s less suitable for young children, people with dietary restrictions, or travelers with mobility issues, given the full-day nature and walking involved.

Final Thoughts

This experience offers a well-balanced mix of wine, food, and scenery, wrapped in a private, personalized setting. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Macedonian wine traditions, an appreciation for local cuisine, and some stunning photos of vineyard landscapes.

It’s a perfect way to spend a day if you’re seeking an authentic, relaxed, and flavorful journey through North Macedonia’s wine country. The combination of expert-guided tastings, scenic drives, and delicious meals ensures you get real value—and a memorable experience to cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with roughly 2 hours spent at each winery, including travel time.

What’s included in the tour price?
The cost covers private transportation, guided tastings, and full 5-course meals with wine pairings at both Lazar and Chateau Sopot.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is a fixed package, but private groups often have some flexibility in timing or focus areas if arranged in advance.

Is it suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The menus are set, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inquire beforehand. The provided menus are based on local specialties and wine pairing.

Are extra wines available at the wineries?
Yes, at Chateau Sopot, guests can taste additional wines beyond the included pairings—though expenses for extra drinks are on the client.

Is the tour kid-friendly?
No, it’s designed for adults, as it involves tasting wine and consuming alcohol.

What should I wear?
Comfortable attire for walking and dining. Since part of the experience involves scenic drives and vineyard visits, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

To sum it up, this tour from Skopje offers an authentic taste of North Macedonia’s wine craftsmanship, paired with stunning scenery and gourmet cuisine. It caters best to those eager to explore local wines in a relaxed, private setting—making it a memorable highlight of any Macedonian adventure.