Wine Vision by Open Balkan: Serbia at the forefront of Europe’s wine and gastronomic scene, with Antonis Leivadiotis showcasing the country’s new dynamic identity

The Wine Vision by Open Balkan exhibition, held in Belgrade from November 22 to 25, 2025, once again confirmed its position as one of the most important events on the wine and gastronomic map of Southeast Europe. Wine Vision by Open Balkan is a showcase that reflects the new face of Serbia, bringing together hundreds of producers, wine tourism professionals, journalists, and visitors from many different countries. At its core stood the labels of Serbian wineries, which in recent years have demonstrated remarkable progress.

Visitors had the opportunity to taste Serbian white wines with refreshing acidity, complex reds, and premium selections that have already gained international recognition. Participating producers represented those who consistently invest in the country’s terroir, highlighting the distinctive character of Serbian land.

A special place at the exhibition was reserved for rakija, Serbia’s traditional spirit, with centuries of history and dozens of variations. Rakija is not just a drink — locals consider it an essential element of Serbian hospitality.

Also present at the exhibition were Air Serbia, showcasing its modern corporate identity and new services for travelers, as well as the National Tourism Organization of Serbia, strengthening the country’s tourism presence.

Serbian Gastronomy

The gastronomic section of the event presented the full spectrum of Serbian products: artisan cheeses, traditional cured meats, handmade sweets, honey, olive oils, and modern culinary creations that blend tradition with global trends. This concentrated display of Serbian gastronomy offered visitors a deeper understanding of the country’s overall identity.

Antonis Leivadiotis – A Greek Ambassador of Serbian Tourism

Among the attendees was Antonis Leivadiotis, one of the most recognizable Greek travel content creators, who for years has been consistently showcasing Serbian culture to the Greek youth and travel audience. With a long-standing connection to Serbia and countless trips across the country, Leivadiotis has become one of the most reliable “storytellers” of Serbia’s modern identity.

His presence at the exhibition covered all the main themes of the festival: wine, gastronomy, cultural heritage, and Serbia’s new tourism identity.

During the event, Leivadiotis held a meeting with Marija Labović, CEO of the National Tourism Organization of Serbia, a key figure in shaping Serbia’s modern tourism strategy and strengthening the country’s international visibility. Her participation in Wine Vision highlighted Serbia’s commitment to promoting authentic gastronomic and wine experiences in global markets. Leivadiotis also engaged in discussions with representatives of Air Serbia.

Through his travel experiences, Antonis Leivadiotis continues to present to the Greek audience a Serbia that is evolving—a country where tradition, culture, and contemporary creativity coexist harmoniously.

“As with every visit, I feel that I bring to the Greek audience images of a country that is moving forward while preserving the core of its identity,” he noted.