Uka Wine: The Journey Behind the Bottle

Uka Farm: Nurturing Roots | Uka Wine: A Blossoming Cooperative

Uka Wine is an added value to Uka Farm, established by Flori Uka’s father, Prof. Dr. Rexhep Uka, in 1996. Flori Uka grew up working in agriculture with the principles of natural farming. This environment, dedicated to promoting biodiversity and cultivating nutrient-rich soils, not only shaped Flori’s professional path but also inspired a commitment to a healthier life and motivating future generations to work with nature for a better world.

After graduating from the Agricultural University of Udine, Flori Uka, a professional winemaker and sommelier, returned to Albania to found the winery in accordance with the principles he learned from his father. Drawing inspiration from his father’s commitment to sustainability and natural agricultural practices, he started working towards developing a winery dedicated to producing high-quality wines from endemic grapes in the pristine landscapes of Albania.

A winemaker is to wine what a conductor is to a symphony; both direct performances create something harmonious, be it music or wine.

FLORI UKA

WINEMAKER & SOMMELIER

Rare production of Albanian wine from endemic vines

Knowing that a specific grape variety needs at least 100 years to adapt to a new environment, Flori decided to work with grapes harvested in their natural habitats, where they have been growing for thousands of years. Thus, he formed partnerships with more than 250 families who own small vineyards (less than one hectare), where the grapes are cultivated using self-sustainable techniques. We honor the diligent work of these vine growers, delivering the unique and authentic flavors of our indigenous grape varieties to your table.

Our foundation is built upon a database of endemic grapes, some of which are up to 200 years old, all grown in the Albanian wilderness. Albania is home to an ideal climate for growing vines, with 300 days of sun, rich biodiversity, different microclimates, and limited edition endemic grapes that still grow naturally, ungrafted, with no need for human intervention—wild like a Spartan.

One of our primary objectives remains the preservation of our country’s ancient winemaking history for future generations—an ancient history that dates back to 6000 years of viticulture and 4000 years of winemaking, making Albania the oldest region of winemaking in Europe and the Balkans. This tradition was unfortunately canceled during a long period of Ottoman rule beginning in the late 15th century, two World Wars, and an oppressive communist regime that isolated the country from the rest of the world until the early 1990s.

However, even after many hardships, Albania’s wine production sector has now re-flourished, with the usage of native grapes being a prominent characteristic of our nation’s wines.

CHAPTER ONE

Growing Uka Wine

Meet Flori Uka, the brain behind Uka Wine. He’s a sommelier and winemaker who wanted to put Albanian wine on the world map. After studying at the Agricultural University of Udine, Flori set out to create a winery that not only made great wines but also cared about nature. He teamed up with around 250 families from different Albanian villages, laying the foundation for Uka Wine and promoting the growth of Albania’s wine scene.

CHAPTER two

Real Flavors, Real Roots

Uka Wine is all about being genuine. Our special grapes, some as old as 200 years, grow in the wilds of Albania. They’re the heart of our natural wines. Thanks to our vine growers spread across the country, the unique flavors from these endemic grapes make every single one of our bottles truly special. Thus, Uka Wine slowly became one of the most respected wineries in the region, giving a nod to centuries-old Albanian winemaking traditions.

CHAPTER three

Rise to the Top

Starting from those ancient vines, Uka Wine became a star winery in Albania and beyond. People who love wine, from expert sommeliers to regular folks, liked what we were doing. But our job wasn’t done. Sure, we were getting recognition and awards, but what kept us going was our promise to keep the old winemaking ways of Albania alive. We’re on a journey, and while we keep making spectacular wines, we’re making sure the values of Albanian winemaking stay strong.

Experience the taste of Albania’s finest, endemic wines.