Strumica Radovish

Strumica-Radovish follows the Strumica River from Radovish in southeastern North Macedonia. The valley forms part of the Rhodope mountains, with Belasica to the south and Ograzden, Plachkovica and Goten to the north. Flatter land lies between 200 and 500 metres, though surrounding terrain rises to 1,881 metres. Mediterranean influence reaches the valley from the Aegean through the Struma valley. Breezes from Belasica's northern slopes bring some cooling as grapes begin to ripen, although drought can be a concern. Vineyards on both banks of the Strumica have gravel and sandy-clay soils, while clay slopes retain moisture. White grapes include Chardonnay and Riesling. Reds include Vranec, Kratošija and Stanušina; Kratošija is also known as Zinfandel and Primitivo.