The Winery of the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Montenegro

The Experimental Estate “Lješkopolje” was established in 1954, covering an area of approximately 35 hectares. The estate serves as a professional and scientific base (formerly for the Institute) and today as a teaching base for the Faculty, primarily focusing on the development of viticulture, winemaking, and fruit growing, as well as other agricultural fields. The estate includes about 22 hectares of active vineyards, collection plantings of various fruit species, greenhouses for experiments in crop and vegetable production, and a wine cellar with a capacity of 500 hectoliters. This wine cellar, built in 1956, is the oldest semi-industrial wine cellar in Montenegro.

Decades of varietal research in viticulture have led to the recognition of 20 new grapevine varieties. Additionally, the “Lješkopolje” experimental estate boasts one of the richest grapevine collections in the Balkans, with as many as 443 domestic, naturalized, and introduced grapevine varieties (genotypes). The uniqueness of the location, the exceptional quality of the grapes, the distinctiveness of the native variety Vranac, which dominates the vineyards, and the applied production technologies, both in traditional and industrial conditions, contribute to the distinctiveness and excellence of our wines, Vranac and Vranac Barrique. These wines have won numerous gold medals and awards at international fairs.

However, the most famous and recognizable product from our experimental estate is the Standard Grape Brandy, fondly remembered and recognized as “Institute Brandy.” In addition to the Standard Grape Brandy, Muscat Grape Brandy is also produced, characterized by its unique fruity flavor, as it is made from over 400 grape varieties.