A clear vision, carefully curated varietals, a perfectly balanced portfolio of labels, tradition and cutting-edge technology position Šapat Wine Atelier among the truly rare premium wineries in the region
The winery’s unique terroir, characterised by its wind rose, gentle Danube-influenced climate and ample sunshine, coupled with exquisite gastronomy and exceptional service, creates the magic of Šapat Wine Atelier near Novi Slankamen. This eminent winery has gained global recognition in just a few years, further enriched by two restaurants, including the fine dining jewel of Serbian hospitality – Fleur de Sel. Offering premium wines and a refined menu, Šapat is a genuine haven for true hedonists.
Led by renowned oenologist Mladen Dragojlović, the team behind Šapat’s unique wines refuses to rest on its laurels. The bar has been raised, and the results are already in sight. Šapat Wine Atelier will soon unveil several new wines, completing the offer of this extraordinary place on the bank of the Danube. This achievement is the result of a long-term vision, years of dedicated work and investments in vineyards and restaurants, as well as the extraordinary team spirit that defines Šapat. Alongside winery director Mladen Ćirić, the team includes celebrated chef Nikola Stojaković and experienced restaurant general manager Dušan Vranić.
“We cultivate Muscat Yellow, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and a particularly high-quality local varietal – Grašac. Our terrain is ideal for Chardonnay, of which we have the highest expectations. We additionally have Merlot and Cabernet, while we’re also the only winery in Serbia to produce wine from the northern Italian Teroldego variety. We also cultivate Blaufränkisch and Pinot Noir,” explains Dragojlović, one of the creators of this prestigious winery’s esteemed reputation.
Šapat Wine Atelier’s vineyards span 12 hectares and the company has no expansion plans, despite increasing market demand.
“Šapat is a premium winery, designed to remain exclusive, producing around 50,000 litres of first-class wine exclusively from its own vineyards. When our new vineyard reaches its full yield, we will produce a total of 100,000 bottles, and no more,” explains winery director Mladen Ćirić. Wine connoisseurs are already familiar with Šapat’s established labels: the lively Muscat Bianca and the floral and fragrant rosé with the distinctive name “Šu-Šu”. One of the winery’s strongest assets is its Chardonnay, representing a perfect blend of nature, Fruška Gora’s geography and expert winemaking. The premium Chardonnay line, named Atila, was awarded a gold medal by the prestigious London-based Decanter.
Fleur de Sel received the prestigious “Best of Award of Excellence” for 2024 from Wine Spectator magazine. This accolade, awarded to only 1,500 restaurants worldwide, represents the pinnacle of excellence in wine programmes
“The premium line consists of two white wines and one red – Atila Sauvignon, Atila Chardonnay and Atila Cabernet. With these wines, we have aimed to highlight the full potential of our terroir. Our vineyards rest on loess soil, a unique substrate that allows for the production of rich, full-bodied, complex and phenolic wines that are destined for the premium category. These wines are aged in oak barrels, while for our Sauvignon and Chardonnay we employ specific techniques to enhance their strength and complexity,” explains Dragojlović.
The Atila Sauvignon wine received an impressive 92 points from James Suckling, the most influential figure in the wine world.
FLEUR DE SEL: GASTRONOMIC PARADISE
The Fleur de Sel Restaurant is a true gastronomic paradise and a standout gem of Serbia. Equipped to the highest standards, it provides the perfect ambience to enjoy authentic cuisine paired with an exclusive wine list. Elegant aesthetics, meticulous attention to detail and spectacular views of the Danube contribute to the unique character of this venue.
Fleur de Sel received the prestigious “Best of Award of Excellence” for 2024 from Wine Spectator magazine. This accolade, awarded to only 1,500 restaurants worldwide, represents the pinnacle of excellence in wine programmes. Fleur de Sel is now the only restaurant in Serbia to have received this honour. Esteemed international culinary guide Gault & Millau also awarded it four chef’s hats in its 2024 edition, confirming its high quality and exceptional service.
This prestigious gastronomic destination on the bank of the Danube near Slankamen is complemented by the Šapat restaurant – a refined à la carte venue designed for the true enjoyment of good food and fine wines. Both restaurants feature a meticulously curated menu that changes seasonally, four times a year. At the heart of renowned chef Nikola Stojaković’s culinary philosophy are the finest local ingredients from the Fruška Gora region and the best Danube fish, as well as carefully selected international components.
LOOKING AHEAD
The Šapat team continues to innovate. A winter menu is currently being prepared, while the wine cellar’s barrels and amphoras hold several true vinous marvels that await their time to shine in their full splendour.
“A new line of red wines is ready and will soon be available. Our wine sales are growing both domestically and internationally. In addition to Montenegro, the UK, Switzerland and China, our wines have recently been exported to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia. This recognition of their quality makes us immensely proud. The best of Šapat is yet to come,” announces winery director Mladen Ćirić.