Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Struma River Valley (Pirin Mountains)
In Bulgaria's southwest, bounded by the River
Struma and Pirin Mountains, this region is
marked by an arid, Mediterranean climate and
soil. The most famous wine here is Melnik's
signature red, the Shiroka Melnishka Loza,
while Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are also
produced. The unique Keratzuda variety is indigenous to Kresna, a village between Bla-
goevgrad and Sandanski.
Winston Churchill used to order Melnik red wine
by the barrel.
WINERIES
Damianitza
( 0746-300 90;
www.damianitza.bg
)
The leading Melnik wine producer,
Damianitza boasts innovations that include combining the local varietal with Cabernet
Sauvignon, creating Ruen, and mixing Nebbiolo and Syrah varietals to create Rubin,
among Bulgaria's best. At time of research, tours were limited due to renovations so
check ahead.
