Albanian Wine Tasting in Singapore

Albanian Wine Tasting in Singapore

More than forty guests. Twelve bottles. A country most of them had never tasted.

On December 12, 2023, Me Zemër hosted an evening of Albanian wine at La Terre Wine Bar in Singapore. Founders Ilda Hila and Federico Carniel flew in to host, and Angelica Balili and her team took care of every detail. Guests came from China, Australia, the United Kingdom and beyond.

Our partner Flori Uka of Uka Winery shared the story of Albanian wine and the native grapes in every glass. Our special guest was Klevis Shima, who owns Hapiha, an Albanian restaurant in Singapore.

The Wines We Poured

White Wines

  • Shesh i Bardhë, Duka Winery. Crisp and bright, with citrus and white flowers, from one of Albania’s native white grapes.
  • Ceruja, Uka Winery. Citrus zest, green apple and herbs, from vines that grew wild up the trees near the estate.

Red Wines

  • Plaku, SEB. Shesh i Zi and Vlosh together, with deep fruit and a hint of earth. Plaku means old in Albanian.
  • Kallmet Classic, Kallmeti Winery, and Kallmet Elegance, Medaur Winery. Two takes on Kallmet, firm and full of character.
  • Shesh i Zi, Alimani Winery. Intense and velvety.
  • Carmenere, Bello Winery. Dark berries and spice.
  • Harmoni, Caco Winery. Ripe fruit and depth, in a blend led by Merlot.
  • Vlosh, Balaj Winery. Bright acidity and vivid fruit, pure Vlosh from the Vlorë coast.
  • Caberlot, Balaj Winery. Bold, with firm tannins and dark fruit.

Orange Wines

  • Plithure Trevllazer, Balaj Winery. Dried fruit, spice and a gentle grip, from Shesh i Bardhë left on its skins.
  • Orange, SEB. Stone fruit and honey, from Shesh i Bardhë aged in terracotta amphorae.

A Celebration of Albania

This evening was about more than wine. It was a celebration of Albanian culture and hospitality that brought people from around the world to one table. Our guests were curious and enthusiastic, and for most of them it was their very first taste of Albanian wine, from a tradition nearly three thousand years old.

Want to know where these grapes come from? Read our guide to Albanian wine regions. Ready for your first bottle? Visit the Me Zemër wine shop.

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