The Day of the Macedonian indigenous grape variety Stanushina was celebrated for the fifth time in Kavadarci on 09.05.2026. The event, held at the Wine Museum, was organized by the association "Macedonian Family Wineries". Prof. Dr. Klime Beleski from the Institute of Agriculture, at the University "Ss. Cyril and Methodius" in Skopje, spoke to the audience about "Stanushina in practice: more quality, fewer compromises".
Stanushina has a long tradition of cultivation in our country and is the only Macedonian indigenous variety that is grown in these areas, especially in the Tikvesh vineyards. It is very important for the national winemaking identity and of course, the preservation of that biodiversity, among grape varieties. Unfortunately, for a certain period it was a rather marginalized variety, although it is an indigenous variety. In the last ten years, interest has been renewed and that interest is in the direction of that global trend, which is towards the valorization of autochthonous varieties - emphasized Prof. Beleski.
The Institute of Agriculture has a significant role as a scientific, expert and promotional carrier in the affirmation and preservation of the autochthonous Macedonian grape variety Stanushina. Through long-term research, ampelographic characterization, clonal selection and modern enochemical analyses, the Institute actively contributes to the valorization of the variety and its positioning as part of the national wine identity.
By implementing scientific projects, field trials and cooperation with the viticulture and winemaking sector, the Institute of Agriculture works to improve the agrobiological and technological properties of Stanushina, in order to create wines with recognizable quality and authentic regional character. The Institute's role in preserving the genetic potential of the variety and its adaptation to modern climatic and market challenges is particularly significant.
Through participation in scientific conferences, educational events, professional trainings and public presentations, the Institute of Agriculture is an important promoter of Stanushina at the national and international level, contributing to raising awareness of the value of Macedonian indigenous varieties and their potential for the development of sustainable and recognizable winemaking.
