The Concours Mondial de Bruxelles is proud to announce the 2026 edition of Vranac Selection by CMB, an international wine competition dedicated exclusively to wines made from the Vranac grape variety and its noble relatives. Taking place from 4-6 March 2026 at the prestigious Hotel Hilton Podgorica, this second edition promises to elevate the global recognition of one of Europe’s most captivating and authentic wines.
A Competition Born from Heritage
Vranac stands as the heartbeat of Montenegrin viticulture, a grape that speaks of stone and sun, of centuries of tradition, and of the rugged beauty of the Balkan Peninsula. From the sun-drenched vineyards overlooking Lake Skadar to the mineral-rich soils of the Crmnica Valley, Vranac thrives in a landscape where Europe’s oldest vines continue to write stories of resilience and pride.
“The Vranac Selection represents far more than a competition” says Baudouin Havaux, president of the CMB. “It is a celebration of authenticity, a platform where tradition and innovation converge, and a testament to the remarkable terroirs that define Balkan’s wine identity.”
What’s New in 2026
Building on the success of its inaugural edition in North Macedonia (2023), the 2026 competition expands its scope to encompass the complete family of ancient Balkan grape varieties. Producers can now enter wines crafted from Kratošija (Tribidrag/Crljenak Kaštelanski) and Plavac Mali in addition to pure Vranac expressions, whether blended or single-varietal. This expansion reflects the deep interconnection between these noble relatives and their shared heritage across the Wine Peninsula.
A Platform for Excellence
Participants benefit from the global credibility and rigorous standards that have made CMB a world leader in wine competitions. Judging panels comprised of international experts: oenologists, sommeliers, importers, and wine writers, conduct blind tastings under strict protocols, ensuring every wine receives fair and thorough evaluation.
About the host: Montenegro
Podgorica, at the crossroads of rivers and mountains, stands as the vibrant heart of Montenegrin wine culture. The city lies steps away from legendary vineyard regions, where modern winemakers blend centuries-old wisdom with contemporary craftsmanship. The Hotel Hilton Podgorica provides an ideal venue: a premium setting that combines accessibility, hospitality, and world-class facilities for judges, producers, and guests.
Behind this event stands the National Sommelier Association of Montenegro, a dynamic force dedicated to elevating the country’s wine culture and professional standards. Through education, competitions, and international collaboration, the Association has become a cornerstone of Montenegro’s contemporary wine identity, one that honors tradition while embracing the future.
“We are honored to host this gathering alongside CMB“, the Association shares. “This competition embodies our commitment to authenticity and our belief in the extraordinary potential of Vranac to captivate the world.”
About the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles
The CMB is one of the world’s most prestigious international wine competitions, renowned for its rigorous blind-tasting protocols, diverse judging panels, and commitment to identifying wines of genuine excellence. With a track record spanning three decades, CMB medals are recognized globally by producers, importers, retailers, and consumers as a mark of quality and authentic distinction.
About the National Sommelier Association of Montenegro
Dedicated to advancing Montenegro’s wine culture, professional standards, and international recognition, the Association works in close partnership with regional winemakers, hospitality professionals, and international institutions to promote the unique heritage and contemporary excellence of Montenegrin wines.
