Lazar Winery was founded in 2001 in the heart of the Tikveš wine region, near Negotino, by the distinguished Macedonian winemaker Lazar Ristov. The story of the winery, however, begins much earlier. For four generations, the Ristov family has cultivated vineyards with dedication and respect for the land, nurturing a deep-rooted tradition of grape growing.
Inspired by this heritage and driven by a passion for winemaking, Lazar Ristov chose to transform the family's long-standing vineyard tradition into a winery of its own. The first wines were crafted in the family home, produced in small quantities and carefully shared with selected local restaurants.
Recognition
Awarded on the World Stage
As the winery evolved, Lazar introduced a series of distinctive wine labels, including Fonko Wines and Châteaux Sopot, which quickly attracted international attention. His wines have been recognized at prestigious global competitions, including the historic first gold medal awarded to a Macedonian wine made of Chardonnay grapes in 2004 at the renowned Mundus Vini competition in Germany.
The Estate Today
Where Tradition Meets Innovation
In 2015, Lazar Winery entered a new chapter with the opening of its modern estate near Stobi, the ancient city that stands along the historic corridor connecting Skopje and Thessaloniki. The winery today features a contemporary 2,500 m² production facility, where tradition and innovation meet in a state-of-the-art cellar equipped with advanced technology and carefully selected French oak barrels.
Each year, over 300,000 bottles of wine are produced from carefully selected grape varieties, reflecting the character of the Tikveš terroir. The portfolio includes a refined selection of premium dry, sparkling, and sweet wines, crafted with precision, patience, and respect for the art of winemaking.
Lazar Winery is more than a place where wine is produced — it is a destination. Guests are invited to experience the world of Lazar through curated wine tastings at the elegant Wine & Dine restaurant, or to immerse themselves fully in the atmosphere by staying in one of the winery's boutique apartments.
A Journey Through Time
Our History
2001
The Birth of Lazar Winery
Long before the winery was established, the Ristov family cultivated vineyards in the fertile Tikveš region for four generations. Driven by passion and vision, Lazar Ristov founded Lazar Winery as a small family-owned winery in Negotino. The first wines were produced in limited quantities within the family home and shared primarily with local restaurants.
2008
Early Recognition
As the winery developed, Lazar introduced distinctive labels such as Fonko Wines and Châteaux Sopot. The wines quickly gained international attention, earning prestigious awards — including the first gold medal ever awarded to a Macedonian wine at the renowned Mundus Vini competition in Germany for its Chardonnay.
2015
A New Estate Near Stobi
A significant milestone came in 2015 when the winery moved to its new location near the ancient city of Stobi, along the E-75 corridor connecting Skopje and Thessaloniki. The new estate united modern wine production with hospitality and gastronomy in a single destination.
2020
Wine & Dine and Boutique Stay
The estate evolved into a full destination experience, welcoming guests to the Wine & Dine restaurant and the boutique apartments — a place where wine, gastronomy and hospitality meet under one roof.
2026
Today
Today, Lazar Winery operates a modern 2,500 m² production facility, producing over 300,000 bottles of wine annually. With a portfolio of premium dry, sparkling, and sweet wines, the winery continues to combine tradition, craftsmanship, and contemporary winemaking. Guests are invited to experience Lazar Winery through curated tastings at the Wine & Dine restaurant and to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the estate by staying in one of the boutique apartments.
We have started! Early harvest in pursuit of the elegance and crispness known in our Pearl sparkling wines. Be ready for the next generation of sparkling wines by Lazar Winery.
Lazar Winery specializes in local grape varieties, particularly Kratošija — rich in flavor and akin to Zinfandel. Our focus on indigenous grapes lets us craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of North Macedonia.
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