Meet the Judges of BIWC 2025: Ivana Simjanovska
You have been a jury from the very beginning of the BIWC. How have the wines from the region changed?
From my perspective as a wine judge who’s been judging at the Balkans International Wine Competition (BIWC) since the first edition, I’ve seen tremendous growth and evolution in the wines from the region over the years.
The wines from the Balkans have undergone significant improvements first and foremost, in terms of quality, then refinement, and consistency. When I first started judging at BIWC, many wineries were still finding their footing, experimenting with both indigenous and international grape varieties. However, now there is a clear focus on mastering the unique terroir of the region and the plethore of indigenous varieties. Producers are paying more attention to modern winemaking techniques and more and more of them to sustainable viticulture practices. The younger generation of winemakers is particularly innovative, blending tradition with a modern approach. Overall, the wines have become more balanced, and expressive of the place they come from.
What sets Balkan wines apart on the global stage?
What really sets Balkan wines apart on the global stage is their strong sense of identity and connection to the land. The Balkans is home to many ancient grape varieties that are not found anywhere else in the world, and these indigenous grapes bring a distinct character to the wines. Varieties such as Vranac, Plavac Mali, Prokupac, Xinomavro, Mavrud, to name just a few, have unique profiles. The region’s rich history, diverse climates, and varied terroirs create an exciting range of wine styles. This uniqueness means the wines stand out in an increasingly competitive global market.
What advice would you give to winemakers considering participating for the first time?
For winemakers considering participating in the BIWC for the first time, my advice would be to focus on authenticity, and of course, quality. Don’t try to imitate trends or chase what is popular globally; instead, highlight what makes your wine and your region special. Understand your terroir and express it in every bottle. Pay attention to consistency in production—ensure that each vintage reflects the best possible version of your wine. Also, participate with an open mind: the feedback you receive can be invaluable, as the competition brings together a wide range of expert palates, and it can offer insights into how your wines are perceived by an international and regional audience. Finally, be patient and persistent; success at competitions like BIWC has become very important as it can significantly elevate your brand in the eyes of the win
