Although wines from the Balkans are not so well-known internationally, given the diversity of terroir across the region, and with very good wines being produced from familiar international as well as less familiar indigenous grape varieties, now is a very good time to explore the region’s wines and try something new.

PinotPinot  Pinot noir 2021 (North Macedonia)

Behind the gimmicky name is a smooth, very pleasant Pinot Noir. The wine has raspberry, plum and cherry aromas on the nose, and flavours of red fruits, blackcurrant and a hint of vanilla and spice on the palate. 

An easy-drinking, reasonable wine offering very good value for money, it will go well with a Sunday roast, roasted vegetables or a mushroom dish, and can also be enjoyed by itself.

Available from Sainsbury’s (£7.50)

Totem Viorica Château Vartely 2022 (Moldova)

This delightfully aromatic dry white wine from Moldova is a little gem! Produced from the indigenous grape variety Viorica, it is a crisp, refreshing wine with a long finish.

With orange blossom and honey on the nose, and citrus and peach flavours on the palate, this is well-balanced wine that has lots of character. 

Perfect as an aperitif or with a seafood dish. 

Available from The Wine Society (£7.25)

Marks & Spencer Expressions Fetească Regală 2022 (Romania)

This fresh aromatic white wine from the new M&S Expressions range is a very good example of one of Romania’s most popular white grape varieties, Fetească Regală (Royal Maiden).

With aromas of jasmine, peach and green apple and flavours of peach, pear and melon, this is a well-balanced wine with a long finish and a slight fizz on the palate. 

This can be enjoyed by itself or with grilled fish. It’s also a good match for a slightly spicy Asian dish. 

Available from Marks & Spencer (£8)