We are excited to be the first winery to introduce an iconic Balkan grape variety to the United States!
“Vranac” is the most widely planted grape in Montenegro and is also popular in Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia and elsewhere. Now comes the Opolo 2021 Vranac Reserve—the first-ever American-grown varietal bottling of Vranac, from an authenticated planting at our winery estate in the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles.
Pronounced “vrah-nuts,” the name Vranac is derived from a word signifying “black stallion,” a nod to the grape’s signature dark color and flavors. The 2021 Vranac Reserve is indeed dark and nearly opaque in the glass, with saturated dark fruit flavors, expansive textures, hints of spice and firm tannins that promise longevity in the bottle. You don’t want to miss this wine—only 50 cases were produced!
The 2021 Vranac Reserve comes specifically from 1,000 Vranac vines that were planted at the Opolo estate in 2018, and the winery has since planted an additional 1,000 vines to expand the program. The Vranac vines were sourced from UC Davis through their Foundation Plant Services, which identifies and certifies the authenticity of the selection.
Born of Balkan Roots
In the words of Opolo co-owner Rick Quinn, whose grandfather was from Montenegro, “Considering Vranac’s status as a beloved grape in some of the Old World’s most established wine regions, its debut in California is probably long overdue. Once you get a taste of it, you’ll be hooked because it’s unique, delicious and different.”
Opolo has long celebrated Rick’s Balkan heritage, from Balkan-style pairing dishes to traditional entertainments at our events to an annual wine tour that takes guests to Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia/Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
“Vranac is such a fitting addition to our portfolio,” David says. “It means a lot to us personally, and it grows very well here in the Willow Creek District. This wine is a knockout, and it shows how we’re still innovating and exploring after 25 years in Paso Robles.”
Released just in time for Wine Festival weekend, our 2021 Vranac Reserve is available for purchase at our estate tasting room at 7110 Vineyard Drive or by giving us a call at (805) 238- 9593. Due to the limited production, 2 bottles may be purchased per person.
