Discovering the Temjanika white wines: Frankincense of grapes

Temjanika is a variety of white wine grape that is indigenous to N.Macedonia and Serbia. The Temjanika grape is typically used to produce white wines that are light-bodied and have delicate aromas. These wines are typically enjoyed young and fresh.

Introduction
If you’re looking to explore the world of Temjanika wines, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to this variety of white grape, discuss its origins, and provide some tips on what to expect in terms of taste and recommended food pairings and of course where you can buy these

Temjanika grapes are native to the Balkan region. It is grown extensively in North Macedonia specially in the Tikves wine district. The name tamjan (frankincense) as it is an intensely scented varietal. These grapes are typically used to produce white wines that are light-bodied and have delicate aromas. These wines are typically enjoyed young and fresh.

The primary name Muscat Blanc a Petit Grains, which is the French translation. In Italy, this grape may be called Moscato Bianco. In Germany, it is known as Muskateller while in Austria it is called Muskat-Silvaner.

Style
These wines are typically enjoyed young and fresh. When choosing a Temjanika wine, if you prefer a sharp fresh style, look for labels that indicate the wine is “unwooded” or “stainless steel fermented.” These wines will be more delicate in flavor with fewer tannins.

For a more complex style, you can look for wines that have undergo malolactic fermentation and aged in barrels. This will add layers to the wine and will give the wine richness and a creamy mouthfeel. The oak also adds certain elements of spices and tannins making for a very intriguing and complex oenological experience.

Sweet twines are also made from the Temjanika grape, the growing conditions retain high sugar content that makes it ideal for making dessert wine. The technique adopted is to dry the grape for concentrating the sugars while removing water.

Smell and taste profile
The Macedonian Temjanika has an intense yellowish-gold color with nuances of green.

The taste profile is generally light-bodied, with moderate acidity levels. You can expect its aroma to be floral and fruity, with notes of apricot and peach.

On the palate, Temjanika wines are refreshing and often have a slightly tart acidity. Flavors may include green apple, pear, or peach.

Dessert wines can be incredibly complex with flavors of honey, apricot, and peach.

Food pairing with Temjanika
With its light body and delicate aromas, Temjanika wine is the perfect choice for a summertime picnic or an intimate dinner party.

Temjanika wines are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Their light body and delicate flavors make them the perfect pairing for seafood dishes. Try pairing Temjanika with grilled fish, sushi, or shellfish.

For a more robust dish, try Temjanika with chicken or pork that has been cooked with light herbs and spices. The wine can also stand up to richer dishes, such as cream-based pasta or risotto.

For a truly unique experience, try pairing Temjanika with Macedonian cuisine.

3 best Temjanika white wines in Singapore

1. Imako Majestic Temjanika: Another great Temjanika wine from North Macedonia, this one from Imako Winery. The nose exudes copious aromas of elderflower, honeycomb, white peach and enchanting white flowers of which lilies are dominating. The taste is rich with abundance of stone fruit and honey, lovely prolonged zesty candied lemon peel aftertaste and a spicy white pepper finish. Full bodied fresh wine with a crispy acidity.
   
   
2. Popova Kula Temjanika Aristokrat 2018: This white wine from Popova Kula Winery is made with 100% Temjanika grapes. The aroma is explosive with an accent on elder flower, acacia, lychee, orange peel and wax. The flavor is balanced and gentle with honey notes on exotic backdrop.
   
   
3. Tikveš Winery Temjanika 2020: This white wine from Tikveš Winery is made with 100% Temjanika grapes. It has aromas of citrus and stone fruits, with a refreshing acidity on the palate. This wine is best enjoyed young and fresh, making it the perfect choice for a summertime picnic or dinner party.

Temjanika Wine selection

Conclusion
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing white wine, Temjanika is a great choice. Whether you’re enjoying a glass on its own or with food, Temjanika wine is sure to please. So why not give it a try? You may be surprised by how much you enjoy this delicious variety!

For a selection of Temjanika white wines, head over to www.vino.sg!