Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bulgarian Wine
Bulgaria's excellent wines are a product of its varied climate zones, rich soil and proud tra-
dition. Foreign interest and investment in recent years have made Bulgarian wines increas-
ingly known and appreciated abroad. Wine-loving travellers can sample them at rustic
wineries, in gourmet urban restaurants and even at roadside stands.
History
Bulgaria's wine-making tradition goes back to
the Thracians, who worshipped wine god
Dionysus and planted grape varietals still cultiv-
ated today. Roman, Byzantine and medieval
Bulgarian civilisations continued the tradition.
While the Muslim Ottomans discouraged
vintners, the 18th- and 19th-century National Revival period saw aristocratic mansions
(some still in use) doubling as wine salons After a damaging late-19th-century phylloxera
outbreak, French experts recommended which endemic varietals to continue (such as
Mavrud, Pamid and Gamza). Today, modern techniques and know-how have helped make
Bulgarian wines increasingly visible in foreign supermarkets.
The official website for Bulgarian wines is
Winemaking Regions
Bulgaria's five wine-producing regions have unique microclimate and grape varietals. Oen-
ophiles can contact the wineries to arrange tastings, or find a specialised group.
Northern (Danube Plain)
Comprising the area between the Danube and the Stara Planina range, and hemmed in by
the Serbian border and the eastern Dobrudzha Valley, this cool plains region boasts 35% of
Bulgaria's vineyards. The signature Gamza is a light red dinner wine. Cabernet Sauvignon
and Merlot are also crafted here, as are whites like Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon
Blanc. Other common northern wines include Muscat Ottonel, Aligoté and Pamid.
