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Wine
regions
Bulgaria can be geographically divided into five
wine producing regions. Each one of those has
its own distinct features and peculiarities and
is somewhat different from the rest.
Northern region
The Northern region spans the area
between the Danube river and the Balkan mountain
range from North to South and between the
Dobrudzha Valley and the Yugoslav border from
East to West respectively. High quality wines
are produced from a number of different grapes,
red as well as white. The reds are made from the
local Gamza as well as from the noble Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot varieties. Chardonnay,
Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc are the most
prominent whites. This region is home to the
fine wineries of Suhindol and Rousse.
Eastern Region
The Eastern Region covers the territory
along the Black Sea coast between the Northern
border with Romania and the Southernmost point
on the sea coast where Bulgaria shoulders
Turkey. The wines from the Eastern region are
made mostly from white grapes. Almost all
renowned white grape varieties may be found
along with the native Misket and Dimiat. To my
personal opinion the whites from this region are
a little too spicy to the Western palate, yet
they are greatly appreciated by Bulgarians and
East and South Europeans in general.
Sub Balkan Region
The Sub Balkan Region contains the
kettles at the Southern foot of the Balkan
Mountain. These deep valleys produce unique
micro climates. The famous in Bulgaria
Sungurlare Misket comes from there as well as
the excellent Sungurlare Eau deVie. White wines
from different grapes are local specialty.
Slavjantzi is a popular winery from this region.
Southern Region
The Southern Region includes the Tracian
Valley from the Balkan Range to the Greek border
and boasts almost Mediterranean climatic
conditions particularly good for Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot production. The best
Bulgarian variety grape-Mavrud grows in the
Tracian Valley. Reds coming from this region are
superb. Jambol and Haskovo are fine
appellations.
South Western Region
The South Western region covers what is
popularly known as Pirin Macedonia. The Struma
Valley runs along it and brings strong
Mediterranean influence in terms of climate.
Fine Cabernets are produced there. The
appellation of Melnik is home to the Melnik
variety. An aromatic and hefty wine that ages
very well. Damianitza is the winery to note.
Their "reserves" are extremely good and my
personal favorite. Another interesting local
variety is Keratzuda, a rose type produced only
in the appellation of Kresna.
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