Bulgarian wine tasting evening with Juan Manuel Gonzalvo (Sommelier)
and Nedko Nedev (Vinos de Bulgaria).
Bulgaria is producing about 70% red wines, 25% white wines and 5% fortified
and sparkling wine. Over 80% of the wine production is exported nowadays
to over 70 countries spread worldwide. Bulgarian wines are winning medals
and recognitions at most prestigious fairs and exhibitions in Spain, Italy,
France, the UK, America, Canada, Singapore, China, Germany, and
elsewhere.
Recommend the indigenous grape varieties like Mavrud, Melnik, and Rubin
(Nebbiolo and Shiraz crossing), as well as the traditionally superb quality
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
Bulgarian oak barrels contribute to the uniqueness of the Bulgarian wines
adding to them hints of vanilla, white bread, and walnut. The quality of the
Bulgarian oak is considered very close to that of the leading French oak (both
are tight-grain oaks). A combination of Bulgarian, French, and American oak
barrels is most common within boutique Bulgarian wineries.
Some of the best Bulgarian white wines have aged in an acacia barrels.
