Prokupac
Serbia · Red · Available (A–B)
Officially recognised as Serbia’s indigenous variety, with a history dating to the Middle Ages; once the most widespread grape in the Balkans, it is now the country’s best-rated wine internationally. Historically it was used for the pale everyday rosé called ružica and as blending filler, which held its reputation back for a century. Serious versions from Župa and Šumadija give medium body, sour cherry and dried plum, black pepper and an earthy finish, with moderate tannin and high acidity. It is also an ancestor of several other Balkan varieties. Exports are growing.