Graani: Winery Tour and Tasting at Winery Lipovac

Exploring Montenegrin wine isn’t something you stumble upon every day, and this tour at Lipovac Winery truly offers an authentic peek into the country’s vinicultural roots. This experience, lasting approximately 1.5 hours, combines a scenic vineyard visit, an insight into traditional and modern wine-making processes, and a tasting of some of Montenegro’s best autochthonous wines.

What truly sets this tour apart is its focus on preserving ancient wine-making methods—from Georgian clay qvevri to Italian terracotta amphorae—making it a fascinating journey into history that you can taste. Plus, the stunning views of Mount Skadar and the wild Montenegrin landscape add a memorable backdrop that enhances the whole experience.

One potential consideration is that the tour isn’t ideal for those with mobility issues since it involves walking through vineyards and exploring underground cellars. That said, if you enjoy learning about wine in an immersive, scenic setting, this is a fantastic option.

This tour is best suited for wine lovers eager to explore Montenegro’s native varieties, history buffs interested in traditional techniques, and travelers who appreciate beautiful landscapes combined with cultural insights.

Key Points

• Authentic Montenegrin wines: Taste autochthonous varieties like Vranac and Chardonnay in their native styles.
• Unique wine-making methods: Experience Georgian qvevri and Italian amphorae, UNESCO-listed techniques that connect you with ancient traditions.
• Stunning scenery: Vineyards on mountain slopes overlooking Skadar Lake provide a breathtaking setting.
• Insightful guides: Knowledgeable guides walk you through both history and the technical aspects of wine production.
• Excellent value: The tour combines tasting, panoramic views, and cultural education at a reasonable price.
• Limited mobility access: Not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or young children.

A Closer Look at the Lipovac Winery Tour

This 1.5-hour tour at Lipovac Winery offers more than just a wine tasting—it’s an exploration into Montenegro’s long-standing winemaking heritage. Situated on the mountain slopes near Skadar Lake, the winery claims a history dating back to the 3rd century BC, making it one of the oldest in the region. The archaeological finds, including amphorae and ancient jugs, underline how deeply rooted winemaking is here.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at the winery’s main entrance, where you’ll meet your guide—likely someone well-versed in local wine traditions and history. From there, you’ll head into the vineyard, a lush patch of land showcasing native grape varieties set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and wild nature. The vineyards are not just picturesque; they are a living testament to Montenegro’s viticultural heritage.

Next, you’ll visit the technological hall, a modern facility featuring high-tech bottling lines. While this might seem a bit industrial, it highlights how Lipovac balances tradition with innovation—an important aspect for wine enthusiasts wanting quality along with a story.

The real highlight is the cellar, a 60-meter-long underground space filled with French oak barriques and bottles. Here, the ambiance is both cool and intimate, perfect for appreciating the aging process that lends complexity to the wines. The georgian clay qvevri, embedded directly in the ground, are UNESCO-listed and symbolize the preservation of 8,000 years of winemaking tradition. Italian amphorae, another notable feature, serve as a “time machine,” allowing visitors to taste drinks reminiscent of ancient Greek and Roman practices.

The Tasting Experience

The tasting includes four carefully selected wines, each representing different styles and grape varieties. You’ll start with Lipovac Idea, a white Chardonnay aged in oak barrels, exhibiting a light golden hue with flavors of white peach and floral notes—perfect for those who enjoy a complex yet crisp white.

Next up is Lipovac Harmonia, a rosé made from Vranac grapes, offering a vivid color and a balance of raspberry and wild strawberry flavors. According to reviews, this is a unique offering, as it’s the only rosé crafted from Vranac, giving it a distinct and memorable profile.

The red wines—Lipovac Concept and Lipovac Model—are equally impressive. The former has a medium structure with ripe fruit notes, making it approachable, while the premium Lipovac Model boasts an elegant garnet color and a refined aroma that suggests potential for aging. Reviewers have noted that the wines are “exquisite and unique,” with one even mentioning that a guest who usually dislikes red wine fell in love with Lipovac’s offerings.

Snacks accompany the tasting—local prosciutto, Montenegrin cheese, and olives—adding a savory touch that complements the wines.

What Visitors Say

The feedback is consistently positive. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides—specifically mentioning Tom, who made the experience engaging and fun with interesting facts and flexibility around the schedule. One visitor noted, “Tom was incredible, personable and made the hen do so fun!”

The views of mountain landscapes and wild nature are repeatedly highlighted as a major plus, with many saying they’d love to return and spend more time enjoying the atmosphere, perhaps over a longer lunch or even overnight.

Many reviewers emphasize value for money—a well-rounded experience that combines history, scenery, and tasting at a fair price point. One guest even mentioned their intention to come back for a longer stay, to relax and enjoy more wine and local cuisine.

Practical Aspects

The tour is offered in English, Russian, and Serbian, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. The duration is around 1.5 hours, which fits well into most sightseeing schedules, and you can reserve your spot with the flexibility of paying later. While the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or guests with mobility issues, it’s perfect for those who want a focused, enriching wine experience.

The meeting point is straightforward—check-in at the winery entrance—and the tour concludes back at the starting location, making logistics simple.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The blend of authenticity and scenic beauty makes this tour stand out. You’re not only tasting local wines but also learning about ancient techniques that have survived millennia, like the use of clay qvevri and amphorae. For those interested in Montenegro’s heritage, this provides a tangible connection to its past.

The quality of wines is another big draw. Multiple reviews highlight the wines’ unique character and the guide’s passion, which enhances the tasting experience. The inclusion of local snacks and access to a modern but tradition-honoring cellar makes the overall value very tempting.

This experience will appeal most to wine connoisseurs, history lovers, and travelers seeking scenic, authentic experiences. If you want a deeper understanding of how wine is made in Montenegro and enjoy tasting something beyond the usual, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

The Lipovac Winery tour offers a delightful combination of history, culture, and flavor. It’s a chance to experience Montenegro’s winemaking traditions firsthand, set against some of the most breathtaking views in the region.

The guides’ knowledge, the quality and uniqueness of the wines, and the stunning scenery make this experience a valuable addition to any Montenegro itinerary. The focus on autocthonous grape varieties and ancient techniques makes it both educational and memorable.

While it’s not suited for guests with mobility issues or young children, it’s an ideal activity for adults who appreciate good wine and cultural heritage. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, flavorful, and authentic experience that balances tradition with modern winemaking, this tour delivers.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years, as it focuses on tasting wine and includes visits to underground cellars.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including sightseeing, the guided tour, and tastings.

Can I buy wine directly from the winery?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to purchase wine and grappa directly from the cellar after the tour.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, it is offered in English, Russian, and Serbian, making it accessible for many travelers.

Are there any mobility restrictions?
The tour involves walking through vineyards and underground cellars, so it’s not suitable for guests with mobility impairments.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll sample four wines: a white Chardonnay, a rosé Vranac, and two red Vranac wines, paired with local prosciutto, cheese, and olives.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to plan flexibly.

This detailed look into the Lipovac Winery tour reveals a rich, authentic, and scenic experience perfect for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike. It combines Montenegro’s ancient traditions with modern wine production, all set in a breathtaking landscape—an experience worth making space for on your trip.