Tirana, October 16 – Leskovik, in southeastern Albania, is gaining recognition for its authentic wines, according to the Italian website “gamberorosso.it”. The region lies along the Vjosa River and has remained largely off tourist maps until recently.

Local families have invested in modern winemaking while preserving traditional methods. They benefit from a unique microclimate with wide temperature ranges, mild humid conditions, cold winters, and frequent snow.

The Fejzulla family runs the “Max Mavrud” winery. They aim to revive local winemaking traditions and highlight indigenous grape varieties. The winery cultivates 17 hectares of vineyards at 750–780 meters above sea level on calcareous soil.

The winery produces the red wine “Trio3,” made from 50% Mavrud, 30% Merlot, and 20% Syrah. The wine ages four months in French and Hungarian oak barrels. Producers say it reflects the local terroir with deep and intense flavors.

The Fejzulla family also grows Pinot, Debina, and Syrah grapes to produce wine and raki. They describe their work as a combination of history, passion, and respect for the region’s natural environment.

Visitors can taste wines along with local cheeses, homemade jams, pancakes, and seasonal vegetables.

Earlier this year, Czech scientists discovered the largest underground thermal lake in the world near Leskovik, named Lake Neuron. It holds over 8,000 cubic meters of water, roughly equivalent to four Olympic-size pools.

The “Max Mavrud” winery honored the discovery by producing the red wine “Neuron” from Mavrud grapes. According to “gamberorosso.it”, the wine celebrates the region’s natural and cultural heritage and embodies the wild character of Leskovik.

/a.p./