Winery Rakčević

Winery Rakčević, located in the village of Smokovci at the heart of the Cetinje region, proudly continues its rich tradition of wine production. Founded in 1991, this winery has been a recognized name on the Montenegrin wine scene for over 30 years.

Situated in a region ideal for viticulture, Rakčević winery benefits from a unique blend of Mediterranean and continental climates, contributing significantly to the distinct character and superior quality of their wines.

The vineyard covers 0.5 hectares, where they cultivate native Montenegrin grape varieties such as Vranac and Kratošija, as well as international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

With an annual grape yield of approximately 5 tonnes, the winery produces around 2,500 liters of wine each year. Wines from Rakčević winery are characterized by their rich flavors, complexity, and pronounced features that express the unique terroir of this special region.

Wines of Rakčević winery

The winery offers a diverse selection of red, white, and still wines. Among the most renowned wines of the winery Rakčević are:

Pečalbar – A dry red wine produced from a blend of Vranac and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is rich in tannins with aromas of dark fruit, such as blackcurrants and plums, complemented by pronounced spicy notes. The name of the wine originates from a family story about the great-grandfather who emigrated to America and sent money back home, which was later used to build the family home.

Depeša – A dry red wine, a blend of Vranac and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s name refers to a “telegram” (quick letter) sent by the great-grandfather to his father, urgently asking for money to return to Montenegro and take part in the wars in which Montenegro was involved. This wine offers complex aromas of dark fruit, especially blackcurrants, along with notes of tobacco.

Smokovac – A dry red wine made exclusively from Vranac, reflecting the family’s pride in their vineyards and tradition. The wine is known for its deep character and unique heritage, distinguished by its rich flavor and pronounced fruity aromas.

Awards and recognitions of Rakčević winery

The winery Rakčević has earned prestigious awards for its exceptional wines, including gold medals at the Novi Sad Wine Fair in 2019 and 2021 for its renowned Pečalbar label. Wines from this winery consistently achieve high scores at international competitions, affirming its position as one of the leading wineries in Montenegro.

Rakčević winery’s facilities

Rakčević winery provides facilities designed for visitors to immerse themselves in the pleasure of wine tasting and nature exploration.

Tasting room

Rakčević winery has a dedicated tasting room where visitors can enjoy guided wine tastings. Here, guests have the opportunity to sample wines such as Pečalbar, Depeša, and Smokovac, while also learning about their production process.

Wine shop

Visitors can purchase the Rakčević winery’s wines directly from their on-site wine shop. Available wine selections include Pečalbar, Depeša, and Smokovac, along with other winery products.

Exclusive tours at Rakčević winery

Rakčević winery offers a two wine tours, allowing visitors to discover the winemaking process and savour authentic Montenegrin cuisine.

The Standard wine tour at Rakčević winery offers a guided visit through the family estate with tastings of three authentic Montenegrin wines paired with local apetizers, lunch and refreshments.

The Smokovačka plata wine tour invites you to enjoy a guided tasting of 3 premium Montenegrin wines perfectly paired with the famous Smokovačka platter, a selection of traditional local delicacies that showcase the harmony of authentic flavors and winemaking tradition in a warm family estate setting.

Grape harvest participation

For nature enthusiasts and lovers of authentic wine experiences, winery Rakčević offers an opportunity to participate directly in grape harvesting. Guests can engage firsthand in winemaking, immersing themselves in the genuine atmosphere of wine culture and connecting closely with nature.

Winemaker and winery

Former Montenegrin national handball player, Mladen Rakčević, is today a winemaker, entrepreneur, and guardian of heritage on his family estate in Smokovci, near Cetinje.

What Mladen and oenologist Andon Krstevski create today is not just wine – he is building a broader story about identity, the preservation of rural tradition, and a return to authentic values. His estate is becoming a place where past and present meet, where rural tourism develops, and where stone and vine unite in a unique vision of the future.

In a time when many chase quick success and forget the deeper meaning, Mladen Rakčević shows that returning to nature and heritage is not a step backward, but perhaps the most important step forward – toward a life filled with peace, purpose, and authenticity.