Metohija: A Cultural Mosaic of Viticulture and Wine Tradition

Metohija, a region located in the southern part of the Šumadija and Western Serbia statistical region in Serbia, is not only known for its rich cultural heritage but also for its distinctive viticultural traditions. This region, which has no directly related or partitioned sub-regions, boasts a unique wine style that intertwines with the area's history, geography, and local culinary customs.

1. Region Name: Metohija

2. Part of: Metohija is situated in the southern part of Šumadija and Western Serbia statistical region in Serbia. It stretches from the southwestern slopes of Mount Zlatibor towards the Drina River.

3. Region Wine Style: The wines of Metohija reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped this region throughout history, including Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian legacies. The local wine style is characterized by a strong connection to tradition and an emphasis on indigenous grape varieties.

4. Region Wine Style RELATEDto: Metohija's wine style is related to the broader European winemaking traditions while remaining distinctly regional. Its proximity to neighboring countries, such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Croatia, has led to a rich exchange of viticultural knowledge and practices over the centuries.

5. Grapes: The grape varieties grown in Metohija are primarily indigenous to the Balkan region. Some notable examples include Prokupac, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Gamay, and Smederevka. These grapes thrive in the area's diverse terroirs, which range from mountainous and hilly landscapes to flat plains.

6. Pairs with Foods: Metohija's wines are known to complement a variety of traditional Serbian dishes. Some popular pairings include Prokupac with ćevapi (grilled meat patties), Cabernet Sauvignon with gibanica (cheese pie), Merlot with ajvar (roasted red pepper spread), and Smederevka with kajmaklija (a dessert made from quark cheese). The region's wines also hold great significance in various religious and cultural celebrations, adding to the richness of Metohija's viticultural heritage.