Vineyard

Ćemovsko Polje — The Vineyard We Are Known For

Ćemovsko Polje was created through the struggle between man and stone, between the grapevine and the scorching sun, enriched by love and passion that have not faded even after more than half a century. This is where the strength and value of the wines that come from it lie.

Ćemovsko Polje is not just a vineyard. It is an expanse where nature and man have created one of the most impressive viticultural sites in Europe. This is the largest vineyard in a single complex in Europe, covering over 2,000 hectares.

Thanks to its exceptional terroir, soil composition and favorable location, both indigenous and world-renowned grape varieties are successfully cultivated in the vineyards. Around 70% of the vineyard is planted with the main variety, Vranac — the national pride of Montenegro.

Our Vineyard in Numbers

Grapevine

Thanks to its exceptional terroir, soil composition and favorable location, both indigenous and world-renowned grape varieties are successfully cultivated in the vineyards.

Around 70% of the vineyard is planted with the main variety, Vranac — the national pride of Montenegro

Vranac

Vranac is an ancient Montenegrin variety, and its true origin is hidden deep in history. It is the ruler of our vineyard, occupying as much as two thirds of the plantings in Ćemovsko Polje. We devote special attention to it, not only in the production of the wine itself, but also through extensive scientific research, taking part in the most important projects of the world’s leading institutions dedicated to grapevine varieties.

Today, following the latest scientific discoveries, it is certain that Vranac originates from the narrower area of Crmnica, and that its parent varieties are Kratošija, the oldest Montenegrin variety, and the rare Duljenga variety, found only in collection vineyards.

Vranac is a variety with exceptionally rich oenological potential, allowing the creation of different wine profiles and styles that leave a lasting impression.

Today, Vranac is a national brand by which Montenegro is recognized around the world, and a variety that positions the country as an essential wine destination.

Kratošija

Kratošija is the oldest known grapevine variety in Montenegro. The first written records of its cultivation date back to the 15th century.

Its centuries-long cultivation across Montenegro is also confirmed by the widespread presence of this variety in all wine-growing areas of the country in the past. The same is true today — its population is highly heterogeneous, with as many as 17 biotypes identified within it. In addition, the presence of its numerous descendants (21) indicates that Montenegro is the country of origin of this variety, from where it later spread throughout the region and other parts of the world.

All available data, including the results of the latest genetic research, confirm that Kratošija is definitively the oldest name for the Zinfandel variety. According to academician Ulićević’s writings from 1959, it is identical to Californian Zinfandel, which is believed to have been brought from Montenegro to California.

Krstač

Krstač is an indigenous white grape variety that thrives exclusively in Ćemovsko Polje — more precisely, at the sites of Nikolj Crkva and Beri.

It was named after the shape of its cluster, which resembles a cross. The variety is demanding to cultivate, but it produces wines with a distinctive character.

13. jul – Plantaže is the only winery in the world that produces wine from Krstač.

Žižak

Žižak is a local white grape variety that was once rare, but is now increasingly present in our vineyards. It has a unique genetic profile and has recently become more widely spread.

It produces light, fresh and harmonious wines. In the Bay of Kotor, it is known as Žižak Bijeli and was traditionally used for producing prosecco-style wines.

International Varieties

In Ćemovsko Polje, we also cultivate international varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Marselan, Petit Verdot and others.

We also maintain experimental plantings with an additional 20 wine varieties, continuously exploring the potential of the climate and soil.

Harvest

The harvest in Ćemovsko Polje lasts from August until the end of September. During those days, a large number of harvesters gather in the vineyards, and the sight of endless rows of grapevines filled with people is an image that stays in memory.

Ćemovsko Polje and Plantaže are not just a vineyard and a winery — they are a symbol of Montenegrin tradition and identity.

Behind every wine of our winery stand knowledge passed down through generations, dedicated work and care devoted to every vine.