Albania Wine
Explore Albania Wine: Wine Regions & Grape Varieties
Albania is home to one of Europe’s oldest winemaking traditions. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, mountainous terrain, and centuries of grape cultivation, the country produces a wide range of distinctive wines—many from indigenous grape varieties found nowhere else in the world.
In recent years, Albanian winemakers have embraced modern techniques and sustainable practices, elevating both quality and global recognition. From bold reds like Kallmet to fresh, floral whites like Pulës, Albanian wines are well worth seeking out.
We’ve spent quite a bit of time in Albania. To maximize our enjoyment, we conducted a fair amount of research about Albanain wine. We’ve compiled a summary of the information we collected below so you can start enjoying the local wine as soon as you arrive!
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Wine Regions in Albania
Albania’s vineyards are typically grouped into four main regions, each defined by its altitude and geography. These varied conditions produce grapes with distinctive profiles that reflect their terroir.
Coastal Plains Region
Altitudes: Up to 300 m (990 ft)
Includes: Tiranë, Durrës, Shkodër, Lezhë, Fier, Vlorë, Kavajë, Lushnje, Delvinë, Pukë
Notes: Mild winters and Mediterranean breezes support fruit-forward wines with moderate acidity.
Central Hilly Region
Altitudes: 300–600 m (980–1,980 ft)
Includes: Berat, Elbasan, Krujë, Gramsh, Përmet, Librazhd, Mirditë
Notes: Rolling hills and mixed soils make this one of Albania’s most important and historic wine regions.
Eastern Sub-Mountainous region
Altitudes: 600–800 m (1,970–2,625 ft)
Includes: Korçë, Pogradec, Leskovik, Peshkopi
Notes: Cooler temperatures and elevation produce structured wines with natural acidity.
Mountains (Highlands) Region
Altitudes: Up to 1,000 m (3,280 ft)
Notes: High-elevation vineyards with clay-silica soils yield smaller harvests with concentrated flavor.
Grape Varieties in Albania
Over 100 grape varieties are grown in Albania, but a handful of native varietals dominate production. These grapes are increasingly prized by winemakers for their complexity and connection to the country’s wine heritage.
Red Grapes
Kallmet
Kallmet is Albania’s flagship red grape, native to the Lake Shkodra region. Known for its bright acidity, smooth tannins, and aging potential, Kallmet wines offer notes of plum, cherry, and warm spice. Often aged in oak, they develop added depth and softness.
Shesh i zi
This dark-skinned grape produces full-bodied reds with deep ruby color, ripe blackberry notes, and firm tannins. Common in central and western Albania, Shesh i Zi is considered a classic Albanian table wine with good cellaring potential.
Vlosh
Native to the Narta Lagoon area near Vlorë, Vlosh wines are savory and aromatic. Expect flavors of tart red berries, black olives, and dried herbs. Vlosh is an approachable, medium-bodied red that pairs well with grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
Serine
Often compared to Syrah, Serine is grown primarily in eastern Korçë County. It produces bold reds with peppery spice, black cherry aromas, and a firm structure—perfect for fans of robust, character-driven wines.
White Grapes
Pules
Pulës is one of Albania’s most celebrated white grapes, grown mainly in Berat County. It yields dry, mineral-driven wines with floral aromas, bright acidity, and a clean finish. A great choice for fans of Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko.
Shesh i bardhe
Shesh i Bardhë produces medium-bodied whites with a golden hue and subtle citrus and wildflower notes. These wines are often unoaked, fresh, and food-friendly.
Debin e bardhe
Grown in the Përmet region, Debinë is notable for its high acidity and finesse. Though it can be made into still wines, it’s particularly well-suited to sparkling wine production, which is gaining interest among Albanian winemakers.
FAQs About Albania Wine
Is there good wine in Albania?
Yes—Albania produces high-quality wine from both native and international grapes. Varieties like Kallmet (red) and Pulës (white) are especially notable for their depth and regional character. Wine quality has improved significantly in the past decade due to modern winemaking techniques and increased investment in vineyards.
What are the red grapes in Albania?
The most important native red grapes include Kallmet, Shesh i Zi, Vlosh, and Serine. Each offers a distinct flavor profile shaped by the region where it’s grown—from the cool lakeside vineyards of Shkodër to the warm hills near Vlorë.