Kratoshija (pronounced Krat-oss-SHEE-yah) is a native grape with a long history in the Republic of North Macedonia which has the same genetic origins as the Italian Primitivo variety. The Tikve vineyards are sustainably cultivated, with 80% of the vines planted on the slopes of hillside plots with east or south-easterly orientation. The vines are double Guyot trained and are planted in well-drained clay soils which are rich in carbonates and naturally encourage high yields. Green harvesting takes place to reduce the yields and concentrate the flavors in the grapes. The grapes are manually harvested when they have reached optimal ripeness and maturity and are transported immediately to the winery.