Montenegro’s President Jakov Milatović announced that he will submit an initiative to the Montenegrin Parliament for the adoption of a Declaration proclaiming Montenegro as a “Country of Wine”.
Speaking at the ceremony marking the International Day of Kratošija, Milatović expressed his pleasure in inaugurating the first official celebration dedicated to Kratošija—the oldest indigenous grape variety of Montenegro—highlighting its rich oenological, historical, and cultural heritage.
He pointed to scientific research confirming that Montenegro is the cradle of Kratošija.
“This grape variety is a symbol of our region, culture, traditions, and customs, as well as the effort of generations who cultivated and preserved it to this day. By preserving Kratošija, we are also safeguarding the authenticity of Montenegro and laying a foundation for the further development of the Montenegrin wine scene,” said Milatović.
He also recalled a significant step in promoting this variety—the recent signing of the Declaration proclaiming the International Day of Kratošija. This was achieved in cooperation with the European Wine Knights Order – Legatura Montenegro, representatives of the Government, the company 13. Jul Plantaže, the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro, and associations of Montenegrin sommeliers, winemakers, and vineyard owners.
According to Milatović, this initiative sends a clear message: Montenegro has both the potential and the ambition to establish itself as a recognized wine destination on regional, European, and global levels.
“I especially want to thank all the signatories of the mentioned Declaration, as well as all winemakers, producers, experts, and enthusiasts who are dedicated to our shared mission—making Montenegro synonymous with a land of wine,” he stated.
He announced his intention to formally propose a parliamentary declaration recognizing Montenegro as a “Country of Wine.”
“In this symbolic way, we aim to affirm our national and cultural commitment to preserving and advancing the wine tradition—in the name of those who built it and for those who will inherit it,” said Milatović.
He emphasized Montenegro’s exceptional climatic conditions, diverse soils—from Crmnica to Zagarač, from Bjelopavlići to the Ćemovsko Field—and centuries-old winemaking tradition.
“Our full potential in this sector is yet to be realized. That’s why we need a united front from the government, the economy, and society to improve quality, protect indigenous varieties, support producers, increase exports of Montenegrin wines to international markets, and develop wine tourism,” he added.
The International Day of Kratošija is held under the patronage of the President of Montenegro, organized by the European Wine Knights Order OEVE – Legatura Montenegro, in collaboration with the company 13. Jul Plantaže and the Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Montenegro.
