The Beginnings
Lazar Winery, located in Negotino, was founded in 2001 as a small family-owned winery by renowned Macedonian winemaker Lazar Ristov. Although the Ristov family has cultivated grapes for four generations, their harvest was traditionally sold to other wineries.
After completing his education, Lazar decided to begin his own journey as a winemaker within the family winery. The first wines were produced in the family home, in limited quantities, and were mainly sold directly to local restaurants.
Over the years, Lazar Winery introduced several successful wine labels, including Fonko Wines and Châteaux Sopot. These wines quickly gained recognition, earning numerous awards at international tastings — including the first gold medal ever awarded to a Macedonian wine at Mundus Vini in Germany.
In 2015, the winery moved to its current location near Stobi, the ancient town alongside the E-75 Skopje–Thessaloniki highway. Today, Lazar Winery operates a modern production facility of 1,500 m², alongside a boutique hotel and a Wine & Dine restaurant.
The winery now produces over 80,000 liters of wine annually, crafted from carefully selected grape varieties in a state-of-the-art cellar equipped with modern technology and French oak barrels. Our portfolio blends tradition, experience, and contemporary winemaking trends, resulting in premium dry, sparkling, and sweet wines.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy a unique wine tasting experience at our Wine & Dine restaurant and to stay overnight in our seven boutique apartments.
A Family Legacy
From generations of grape growing to the first bottles produced under the family name, the foundation of Lazar Winery was built on tradition, patience, and passion.
The First Wines
Early production began on a small scale, with wines shared directly with local restaurants, laying the groundwork for a recognizable house style.
Today
Lazar Winery stands as a contemporary winery rooted in tradition, producing premium wines enjoyed by guests and partners across multiple countries.
Recognition and Awards
With the launch of labels such as Fonko Wines and Châteaux Sopot, Lazar Winery gained international recognition and prestigious awards at wine competitions.
A New Home Near Stobi
The move to a modern winery near the ancient city of Stobi marked a new chapter, uniting wine production, hospitality, and gastronomy in one destination.
Lazar Ristov
Owner & Winemaker
Founder of Lazar Winery and an award-winning Macedonian winemaker whose wines are sold in more than 15 countries.
Magdalena Ristova
Quality Control
Oversees quality at every stage, from grape and must analysis to bottling, ensuring consistency in every wine.
Borche Ristov
The Next Generation
Brings new energy and continuity to the winery, combining education with hands-on experience.
Zlatko Ristovski
Head of Production
Leads cellar operations and production processes to ensure quality, structure, and consistency across all wines.
Lazar Winery wines are available in North Macedonia and selected international markets. We collaborate with carefully chosen partners — restaurants, wine shops, and distributors — who share our commitment to quality, authenticity, and storytelling.
Guests can also purchase wines directly at the winery and through our wine experiences and events.
Stay up to date with the latest news from Lazar Winery, including awards, events, media features, and special releases.