Traveling through North Macedonia, especially in its wine country, offers a chance to slow down, enjoy incredible views, and savor some of the country’s best wines. This tour—covering two of the most acclaimed wineries, Lazar and Chateau Sopot—gives you a well-rounded taste of Macedonia’s wine-making tradition, paired with delicious meals and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or simply looking for a memorable day out, this experience is designed to deliver.
What we really like about this tour is the chance to visit two very different wineries, each with its own story and style. Plus, the inclusion of guided tastings with expert explanations means you get more than just sipping—you learn about what makes Macedonian wines special. The highlight, perhaps, is the gourmet 5-course lunch paired with wines at both wineries, turning the whole day into a true feast.
On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the second winery’s costs aren’t included in the price, so you might want to budget for extra tastings or snacks there. Also, this experience runs about 6 hours, which is quite full but does mean a fair amount of time in the car, so if you’re not keen on long drives, it might be a consideration.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate good wine, beautiful views, and tasty food—all in a private group setting. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed, educational, and flavorful day exploring North Macedonia’s wine scene.
Key Points
- Two unique wineries: Lazar, known for award-winning sparkling wines, and Chateau Sopot, a boutique estate with on-site grapes.
- Guided tastings: Expert explanations turn tasting into learning, making it more engaging.
- Gourmet lunches: Full 5-course meals at each winery, expertly paired with local wines.
- Scenic drives: Enjoy the countryside views that make North Macedonia’s wine regions so appealing.
- Flexible, private experience: Customizable to your schedule, with pickup from Skopje.
- Additional expenses: Tastings at Chateau Sopot are on you, so plan accordingly.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
If you’re considering a wine tour in North Macedonia, this one from Skopje stands out by combining quality visits with excellent food. It’s designed for those eager to explore local wine production while enjoying the scenery and local cuisine.
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Picking Up and Starting the Day
The tour begins with a conveniently arranged pickup in Skopje, ensuring a smooth start without any hassle. You’ll be driven in a private vehicle, allowing you to relax and take in the landscape as your guide takes you out into Macedonia’s southwestern wine corridor. The drive, about 2 hours to the first stop, offers a chance to get oriented with the region and chat with your driver or guide about what’s ahead.
Winery Lazar: A Modern Classic
Your first stop is Winery Lazar, which has gained recognition since opening in 2015. Known for its innovative approach blending Italian techniques with traditional Macedonian methods, Lazar produces 22 different wines, including award-winning sparkling varieties that have garnered quite a bit of praise. Visitors often comment on the impressive quality of Lazar’s sparkling wines, especially their “pearl” sparkling Brut.
What makes Lazar appealing is the combination of modern winemaking with a strong commitment to quality. The winery’s tasting room is designed to showcase their best wines, and during your visit, you’ll be guided through a tasting session that emphasizes their signature styles. Their dedication to quality control and unique labels makes each sip a little special.
Gourmet 5-Course Lunch at Lazar
The highlight here is the 5-course gourmet meal, each dish thoughtfully paired with Lazar’s wines. You start with a glass of Pearl Sparkling Brut—an excellent way to set the tone. The courses include:
- Lazar Salad with Grasevina White Wine
- Salmon Carpaccio with Pinot Grigio
- Risotto with Shrimp paired with Allure Grand Cuve
- Beef in Dark Sauce with Erigon Kratosija Red
- Cheesecake with Fortuna Rosé
The combination of food and wine here is carefully curated, so you’ll enjoy a balanced experience that highlights Macedonian flavors and wine-making finesse. Several reviews emphasize the quality of the lunch, with one saying, “The food was excellent, and the wine pairings really enhanced each course.”
More Great Tours NearbyChateau Sopot: Boutique Charm with On-site Vineyards
After a satisfying lunch, you’ll head to Chateau Sopot, a boutique winery that’s been making wine since 2006. Situated between the Vardar River Valley and Lake Mladost, the estate boasts 94 hectares of vineyards, all grown on-site. That means their wines are made from grapes they cultivate themselves, adding an extra layer of authenticity and control over quality.
Once there, you’re free to explore the winery on your own, taste their finest wines, and soak in the view of the surrounding vineyards. The winery’s philosophy centers on “Wine, Food, View”—a simple but compelling way to frame what they offer.
Gourmet Lunch at Chateau Sopot
Like Lazar, Chateau Sopot offers a 5-course meal to pair with their wines, with each dish matching the estate’s wine labels:
- Focaccia
- Caprese Salad with Povaradrec-Rhein Riesling
- Beef Carpaccio with Sopot Cuvée Red
- Bacon-wrapped Plums with Serbez-Roze
- Rabbit with Prosciutto and Olives, paired with Pinot Noir Reserva
- Cheesecake with Ubava-Temjanika
This meal continues the theme of delicious Macedonian cuisine paired seamlessly with regional wines, making for a satisfying end to the tour.
Final Return to Skopje
After your wine and food adventure, your private driver will take you back to Skopje, usually after about 2 hours of visits and tastings. The whole day packs in a lot—two wineries, two lunches, scenic drives—and is perfect for those wanting to get a deep dive into North Macedonia’s wine scene without the hassle of organizing transport or tastings themselves.
What to Keep in Mind
While this experience offers a lot of value, here are some practical considerations. First, the second winery’s tastings aren’t included in the price, so you may want to budget extra if you’re interested in trying more wines there. Also, the tour is quite full, lasting around 6 hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace but don’t mind a fair amount of driving.
If you’re traveling with children under 16, or with specific health considerations (like lactose intolerance), note that alcohol consumption is part of the experience, and there are age restrictions. The tour is also not ideal for travelers over 70 or those with mobility challenges since it involves a fair bit of walking and standing.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour really suits wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Macedonian wines and taste a variety of styles. Foodies will appreciate the carefully curated meals that complement each wine. If you’re after a scenic, relaxed day with private transportation, it’s a great choice.
It’s also suitable for travelers who want to avoid the stress of organizing multiple visits independently, as everything is taken care of in advance.
FAQ
Are the tastings at Chateau Sopot included in the price?
No, the tastings at Chateau Sopot are on your’ expense, so you might find it worthwhile to purchase additional wines there if you’re interested.
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, visits, tastings, and meals.
Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since the experience involves wine tastings and alcohol, it’s not suitable for children under 16 or those who prefer non-alcoholic options.
Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, a private driver will pick you up from your Skopje accommodation and transport you between wineries and back.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are the menu courses at both wineries similar?
No, each winery offers its own 5-course meal designed to pair with their wines, adding variety to the experience.
From Skopje: Lazar & Chateau Sopot Wineries Visit & Tastings
Final Thoughts
If you’re heading to North Macedonia and want a well-rounded wine experience, this private tour from Skopje is a solid pick. You’ll get the chance to sample some of the country’s finest wines, enjoy beautifully prepared meals, and take in scenic vineyard views—all without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s a day that combines education, indulgence, and relaxation, perfect for wine lovers and foodies alike.
While the overall value is good, remember that additional costs at Chateau Sopot are on you, and the day’s full schedule might be a lot if you prefer a slower pace. Still, if you’re after a deep-dive into Macedonia’s wine scene in a private setting, this tour hits the right notes.
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