Tasting No 288 – April 28, 2026
Turkish Wine: Ancient Roots, Indigenous Gems and Global Parallels

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Tasting Overview
Anatolia (the Asian part of modern Turkey) is the true cradle of wine, home to the earliest domestication of the wine grape (Vitis vinifera). While regions like Georgia are famous for ancient winery evidence, southeastern Anatolia and the Taurus Mountains show winemaking traces going back 7,000–9,000 years (Neolithic period). Since the 1990’s, a boutique revolution has shifted Turkey’s focus from industrial quantity to high-quality, terroir-driven indigenous grapes. This tasting bridges that ancient heritage with modern refinement, exploring a “familiar but exotic” profile rooted in the world’s oldest traditions.
Type of tasting: Open
Presenters: Sergio Ardila, Cesar Falconi and Jaime Estupiñan
Participants: TBA
These are the wines:
- Doluca, ‘DLC’ Narince, 2022
- Chamlija, Kalecik Karasi, 2023
- Kavaklidere, ‘Prestige’ Bogazkere, 2019
- Kavaklidere, ‘Selection’ Öküzgözü-Boğazkere, 2021.
The Menu and Paring:
- Mediterranean Citrus Calamari Salad (pairing with Prestige Narince. The oak-influenced body matches the char of the squid while the citrus notes echo the dressing.
- Mushroom Risotto (pairing with Kalecik Karası. Earthy undertones and bright acidity harmonize with the rich cream and mushrooms.
- Braised Beef Short Ribs in Red Wine Reduction (pairing with Bogazkere and the blend Öküzgözü-Boğazkere. The vibrant fruit and acidity of the “Bull’s Eye” Boğazkere cut through the rich fat of the ribs.
- Dessert, coffee and tea.
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Historical Context: The Cradle of Viticulture
Turkish wine history precedes the famous European traditions. Consider the role of Anatolia relative to other ancient powers:

The Hittite Legacy (2000 BCE)
“Hittite Legacy” is a cornerstone of Anatolian viticulture, as the Hittites (who ruled Central Anatolia roughly between 1600–1180 B.C.E.) were among the first to move wine from a simple agricultural product to a strictly regulated commodity. The Hittites had advanced laws protecting vineyards. Turkey was effectively regulating wine quality thousands of years before the French AOC System was conceived
The Hittite Legacy: Vineyard Protection Laws
In the Hittite law code (found on cuneiform clay tablets), the second major tablet was titled “If a Vine” (after its opening words). This highlights how central viticulture was to their society.
- Property Protection: The laws were incredibly specific about theft and damage. If someone stole vines from a vineyard, they were required to pay a steep fine in silver. If a person set fire to a vineyard, the law mandated that they replant the vines and pay a fine to the owner for the lost harvest.
- Ownership and Social Status: Vineyards were often used as a form of payment or reward for military and administrative service. The laws protected the “right of use” for these lands, ensuring that the state or a neighbor couldn’t arbitrarily seize a productive vineyard.
- Regulations and Wine Quality: The Hittites didn’t just protect the land; they regulated the product itself to ensure it was suitable for both the King and the Gods.
- Religious Standards: Wine was a primary offering in Hittite religious ceremonies. Because it was “the drink of the gods,” there were strict purity standards. Historical texts mention “pure wine,” “sweet wine,” and “new wine,” suggesting they had a classification system based on the style and quality of the press.
- Pricing Controls: The Hittite laws established fixed prices for various agricultural goods, including wine and raisins. This was an early form of market regulation designed to prevent price gouging and ensure the stability of the wine trade, which was a major part of the Anatolian economy. (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), established in 1935, is the gold standard for wine regulation. It was created to combat fraud and ensure that a “Bordeaux” actually came from Bordeaux and was made according to local tradition; the Italian System: DOC and DOCG modeled after the French AOC, was established in 1963. It is slightly more layered to account for the massive variety of indigenous Italian grapes. )
Native and Domesticated Grapes in Turkey
Turkey is widely considered the “homeland of the vine” (Vitis vinifera), specifically the region spanning Eastern Turkey and the Caucasus.

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Production, Terroir and Wine Tourism
Turkey ranks fifth in the world for vineyard area (~410,000 hectares), yet only 2–3% of grapes are fermented into wine (approx. 65 million liters annually); the rest are for table grapes and raisins. As a comparison, production in 2024 – in billion of bottles – was: Italy 5.88, France 4.81, Spain 4.13, Argentina 1.45, and Chile 1.24.
Regional Breakdown & Tourism Routes
- Thrace & Marmara (Marmara Wine Route): Maritime climate influenced by three seas. The “Thrace Wine Route” links boutique producers near the Strandja Mountains.
- Grapes: Papaskarası (red), Yapıncak (white).
- Producers: Chamlija, Suvla, Barbare.
- Aegean Coast (Urla Vineyard Route): Mediterranean climate; the “Tuscany of Turkey” with stone chateaus and high-end gastronomy.
- Grapes: Çalkarası (red), Bornova Misketi (white).
- Producers: Kavaklıdere (Pendore), Sevilen, Urla Şarapçılık.
- Central Anatolia (Cappadocia Route): Continental/Volcanic soils. Features tastings in rock-carved caves (e.g., Argos resort tunnels holding 75,000+ bottles).
- Grapes: Kalecik Karası (red), Emir (white).
- Producers: Vinkara, Turasan, Kocabağ.
- Eastern / Southeastern Anatolia: Harsh continental climate; ancestral home of the powerful “Bull’s Eye.”
- Grapes: Öküzgözü, Boğazkere (reds), Narince (white).
- Producers: Kayra.

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Global Parallels and Price Comparison
Turkish wines share structural characteristics with major global regions, and Turkish offer a “familiar but exotic” profile that bridges the gap between major European styles:
France: Kalecik Karasi is often called the “Pinot Noir of the East” for its light body, red fruit, and elegance. Narince is frequently compared to Chardonnay because it handles oak aging beautifully and has a creamy texture.
Italy: Boğazkere (meaning “throat burner”) has the aggressive tannins and structural power of a Nebbiolo (Barolo) or an Aglianico. Emir shares the mineral, high-acid, and “crisp” profile of a Gavi or Etna Bianco.
Spain: -Öküzgözü (meaning “Bull’s Eye”) is juicy and bright like a Mencía or a fruit forward Tempranillo from Rioja Alavesa.

Price Comparison: Prestige Turkish bottles ($40–$95) sit in a price bracket similar to Napa Reds or Rioja Reservas, offering complexity comparable to European “Cru” wines.
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Information on the Wines
Wine #1. Doluca ‘DLC’ Narince, 2022
– The Producer: Doluca is one of the oldest and long established companies of Turkey, being in operation for over 90 years. The Estate was founded as Maison Vinikol in 1926 at Galata, which was the base for today’s Doluca. The founder Nihat Kutman produced his first wines from Yapincak and Karalahana grape varieties. Located in mid-northern Anatolia, Doluca Wines operates 200 hectares and produce annually 14 million bottles.
The wine:
- Vintage: 2022
- Grape: 100% Narince
- Region: Tokat, Anatolia Mid-Northern Region
- Fermentation: Generally stainless steel, which preserves the grape’s natural a cidity and vibrant fruitiness.
- Alcohol: 13%
- Awards: The 2022 vintage received a Silver medal at the International Wine Challenge
Winemaker notes: During the production of DLC Narince wine, only free run juice fermented under low temperatures was used. As a result, next to the floral and fruity flavors of this young wine, the narcissus jonquil flower, jasmine, grapefruit and orange aromas are felt at the forefront with its aromatic, smooth and crisp character.
Tasting notes: A delicate floral approach, speaking of linden, narcissus, chrysanthemum and lime. Swirl and more of that floral arrangement is revealed along with yellow pollen and a crispy white nectarine. Palate is smooth and gentle, with a fine line of acidity that slowly increases toward the end. The aftertaste pulls this all together with a lingering palate of lemon zest. (
Aromas/Palate: Lemon zest, green apple, white peach, white pepper, and hints of tropical fruit. This vintage is recognized for its crisp, clean character and high quality for its price point, representing a good example of the indigenous Turkish Narince grape.
Best parings: Feta, goat cheese, Mediterranean salads, and grilled fish.
Wine #2. Chamlija, Kalecik Karasi, 2023
– The Producer: The Chamlija Family Estate was founded in 2000 by Mustafa Çamlıca. While the family has been farming in the Thrace region since 1935, Mustafa (the third generation) led the transition to high-end viticulture, with the first vintage released in 2011. The Estate is located in Kırklareli, Thrace, specifically the Strandja (Istranca) Mountains region. This area is unique for being influenced by three seas: the Black Sea, the Marmara Sea, and the Aegean. They currently cultivate approximately 130 hectares (roughly 320 acres) across 58 different parcels. Their vineyards are among the highest density in the Balkans, ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 vines per hectare to encourage deep rooting and terroir expression.
Chamlija is a boutique-scale producer focused on “terroir wines.” Their focus is on high quality over mass volume. They produce Approximately 150,000 – 200,000 bottles yearly and export about 30% to over 15 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany, positioning themselves as a leading face of the Turkish wine renaissance.
– The Wine:
- Vintage: 2023
- Grape: 100% Kalecik Karası
- Region: Aegean
- Fermentation: cold maceration before fermentation to maximize color and aromatic extraction without harsh tannins. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks.
- Aging: Unlike their heavier “Thracian” blends, this wine is aged for approximately 6 to 8 months, using a mix of stainless steel to preserve fruit and used French oak barrels to add subtle structure. Bottled in early 2024, following a light filtration to maintain the wine’s “vibrant” character.
- Alcohol: 14.2% ABV
- Awards: Gold Medal at Balkans International Wine Competition (2025)
Tasting notes: Color: Bright, translucent cherry red or light ruby. Nose: Dominated by fresh raspberry, strawberry, and a distinctive “oriental spice” (aniseed and cinnamon). Aromas: Vibrant nose dominated by red berries (strawberry, raspberry, and red currant), and a distinctive “oriental spice” (aniseed and cinnamon). You may also detect floral hints of violet and a subtle touch of white pepper or cocoa. Palate: Light to medium-bodied with soft, velvety tannins and a refreshing acidity. It has a smooth, “easy-drinking” character but maintains a persistent finish.
Wine #3. Kavaklidere, ‘Prestige’ Bogazkere, 2019
– The Producer: Kavaklidere winery is the most historic name in Turkish wine, deeply tied to the “Hittite Legacy” as they were the first to modernize these ancient traditions for the 20th century. Founded in 1929 by Cenap and his wife Sevda in Ankara. It was the first private wine producer in the Republic of Turkey. While headquartered in Ankara (Akyurt), the company operates three separate production facilities across Turkey’s most important terroirs: Ankara-Akyurt (Central Anatolia), Cappadocia-Gülşehir, and Pendore (Aegean). They own approximately 652 hectares (roughly 1,611 acres) across seven different sub-regions. The winery produces approximately 19.5 million liters annually. Kavaklıdere is a global ambassador for Turkish wine, exporting 20% of its production to over 30 countries, including major hubs in Germany, Belgium, and the United States.
Kavaklidere uses a tiered branding structure to categorize its extensive portfolio, ranging from approachable daily wines to highly structured, age-worthy selections. It mirrors the “Quality Regulations” found in Hittite history, showing how a modern producer creates its own internal standards:
– The “Prestige” Series (the Flagship) represents the pinnacle of Kavaklıdere’s winemaking, focusing specifically on highlighting the potential of Turkey’s native grapes. Grapes are sourced from specific, high-quality vineyards (like Diyarbakır for Boğazkere or Cappadocia for Narince), that undergo meticulous hand-harvesting, longer maceration, and extended aging in French oak barrels (usually 9–12 months, aiming to produce “terroir-driven” wines with high aging potential (often 5–10+ years);
– The “Pendore” Series (Single Vineyard/Estate) is focused on a specific estate in the Aegean region (near Manisa). This Pendore vineyard uses high-density planting and “limited yield” practices to ensure concentrated flavors. Often features international varieties (Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon) as well as the native Öküzgözü.
– The “Selection” Series (The Classic), introduced in 1987 to celebrate the winery’s 60th anniversary, is perhaps their most famous “Classic” tier. It focuses on the traditional blending of Turkish grapes -specifically the Öküzgözü-Boğazkere blend, designed to be elegant, consistent year-over-year, and representative of the “Turkish Style”.
– The “Egeo” Series (Regional Excellence), focuses on the Aegean region’s unique microclimates, which are influenced by sea breezes and higher altitudes. These wines are often more “modern” and fruit-forward, and include international varietals Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc.
– The “Ancyra” Series (Premium Varietal). Named after the ancient name for Ankara, this is a “Premium” tier that emphasizes the pure characteristics of a single grape variety. These are typically fresh, easy-to-drink, and usually see little to no oak. They are meant to be enjoyed young.
– The “Angora” and “Çankaya/Yakut” Series (Daily/Table Wine), are entry-level wines widely available and recognized in Turkey; they are multi-regional blends designed for immediate consumption.
– The Wine:
- Vintage: 2019
- Grape: 100% Boğazkere.
- Region: Diyarbakır, Southeastern Anatolia
- Harvest and Fermentation: Grapes are hand-collected at optimum maturity, typically in late September to early October. Long maceration period (skin contact) to extract the deep color and robust tannins characteristic of the variety. Fermentation is temperature controlled.
- Aging: typically aged for 9 to 11 months in French oak barrels (mostly 225L) to soften the aggressive tannins and add complexity.
- 13.5%-14% ABV
Tastng Notes: Boğazkere (literally translated as “throat burner”) is known for its high tannins and power. The high levels of “grippy” tannins (the “throat burner” effect) and the full body of the wine require a solid acidic backbone to keep the wine from feeling flabby or heavy. Color: deep, dark ruby with garnet tints. Nose: complex and intense. You will find dark fruit (blackberry, black cherry), dried red fruits, and distinct “savory” notes like leather, tobacco, and black pepper. Palate: full-bodied with “well-balanced strong tannins.” It is a structural wine that feels heavy and “grippy” in the mouth, ending with a long, spicy finish.
Food Pairing: because Boğazkere is so tannic, it requires fat and protein to soften the palate: meats, such as grilled red meats (lamb is the classic Turkish pairing), spicy kebabs, or beef brisket; hearty, slow-cooked stews with rich sauces; heese: Aged, strong cheese like Parmesan, Manchego, or the Turkish Eski Kaşar.
Wine #4. Kavaklidere, ‘Selection’ Öküzgözü-Boğazkere 2021
– The Producer: Same as wine #3.
– The Wine:
- Vintage: 2021
- Grape: Blend of Öküzgözü for elegance and Boğazkere for robust structure;
- Region: Mid-Eastern Anatolia
- Fermentation: long maceration, temperature-controlled malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks; .
- Aging: approximately 10 months in French oak barrels, followed by an additional one year in the bottle
- 14% ABV
- Awards: Bronze Medal at the 2024 International Wine & Spirit Competition
Tasting notes: Aromas: A complex nose featuring dried red fruits, plum, and black cherry, layered with notes of spice, tobacco, and leather. Palate: Bold and structured with persistent flavors of cherry and cassis. It is known for its strong, ripe tannins and integrated oak influence from aging.
Food Pairing: Pairs exceptionally well with spicy sauced red meat, T-bone steak, grilled lamb, or hard yellow cheeses.
- CV Members Rating (after the tasting)
References:
McGovern, Patrick E. Ancient Wine: The Search for the Origins of Viniculture.
Robinson, Jancis. The Oxford Companion to Wine.
Öğütoğlu, Taner. Turkish Wine Guide.
Understanding the Indigenous Grapes of Turkey. The Wine Advocate.
Anatolia: The Birthplace of Wine. Wine Enthusiast.
McNeil Karen. The wine bible. Third edition.
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Tasting #287 – March 31, 2026 Tasting Spätburgunder 

The VDP also has a separate classification for Sekt, or traditional-method sparkling wine:

– The Producer: Weingut Rebholz family has long been defined by a steadfast commitment to producing pure, natural, and authentically dry wines. This began with Eduard Rebholz (1889–1966) who transformed the winery after World War II and rejected the growing trend toward sweetened, manipulated wines. In 1951, he articulated his principle of “natural wine”: wines made without sugar additions, artificial sweetening, or any intervention that alter their original character. For him, true quality began in the vineyard, and cellar work should preserve — not modify — the wine. His son, Hans Rebholz (1920–1978), continued this uncompromising dry style, even when it was unfashionable in Germany. Since the mid‑1990s, Hans’s son Hansjörg and wife Birgit have led the estate, expanding vineyard holdings, joining the VDP, and strengthening their commitment to sustainability through organic and later biodynamic certification. Their sons, Hans and Valentin, represent the next generation embracing these same values.
– The Producer: Weingut Meyer-Näkel is a producer in Dernau in the Ahr Region. It is best known for red wines made from the Spätburgunder wine grape variety, though the portfolio also includes whites and rosé. The name of the wine estate goes back to the marriage of grandparents Paula Meyer and Willibald Näkel in 1950. They cultivated an area of just 1.5 hectares yet were able to make a name for themselves, because Willibald’s production of dry red wines represented thoroughly pioneering work at the time. As of 2021 the vineyard holdings had grown to 15 hectares of Pinot Noir. The business was managed by Willibald’s son Werner, his wife Claudia and their daughters Meike and Dörte. The two sisters are now proceeding with making the magnificent terroir of the steep slopes by the Ahr tangible in mineral-laden and fruity wines. This requires a great deal of care in the vineyard as well as reduced yields, which are harvested by hand and carefully selected. The work in the cellar focuses exclusively on preserving this high level of quality through a gentle working method.
– The Wine: VDP.ORTSWEINE denotes high-quality, characterful and traditional vineyards within a town and give expression to the local terroir. Only regional varieties are used. Reduced yield yields and a long ripening period on the vine enable the typical aroma and elegant acidity and tannin structure. The slate soils of the Ahr River give Spätburgunder an unmistakable minerality that is truly unparalleled, making it something unique.
– The Producer: The Thörle Estate dates back to the 16th century. In 1985 Rudolf Thörle took over from his father Jakob Thörle and set the estate’s focus more on the traditional varietals Riesling and Pinot Noir. In the following years, the Thörle family acquired and planted excellent parcels in Salheim’s Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards sites to expand the estate’s diversity of terroir. Since 2006 the state has been in the hands of the next generation, Johannes and Chrisph Thörle, who manage the winery with innovative skills.

Tasting No 286 – February 24, 2026
Despite not being part of the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands were included for the following :
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Canary wine industry flourished thanks to the production of sweet wines, especially those made from Malvasia, which were exported massively to England, Flanders, and the Americas. These wines, internationally known as Canary Sack or Malmsey, enjoyed great prestige and were widely cited in European literature of the time. This golden age positioned the Canaries as one of the major wine centers of Atlantic trade, in direct dialogue with other Mediterranean regions producing sweet and fortified wines.
Sicily as a whole enjoys ample sunshine and lots of heat. However, Mt. Etna’s high elevation also provides greater rainfall, moderating breezes and cooler temperatures. Etna’s unique nature means soils, microclimates and exposures change dramatically from site to site, creating a panorama of characteristics and possibilities in the vineyards. Etna DOC is a stunning wine appellation that covers the slopes of Sicily’s Mount Etna. The appellation is famous for its unique volcanic terroir and distinctive wines. More details about wines from Sicily, and Etna DOC in particular can be found in our blog post from February, 2024 (
The Priorat wine DOP is located in the Catalonia region, just inland from the Mediterranean port city of Tarragona. The Montsant mountain chain dominates the region, with vineyards situated between 330 feet above sea level in the valleys of Bellmunt del Priorat and el Molar up to 2,500 feet above sea level on the slopes of La Morera de Montsant and Porrera. Many vineyards are located on costers (Catalan for “steep slope”), so terracing is common, and vineyards are often too steep and narrow for machine-harvesting. The slate soil on the slopes is known as llicorella due to its dark color and is the main feature of the soil’s terroir and the success of its native grapes: Ganarcha and Cariñena.
– Producer: Tenuta delle Terre Nere is one of Etna’s benchmarks, a pioneer in parcel‑based vinification and in showcasing the purity of volcanic terroir. Terre Nere’s vineyards encompass 55 hectares (135 acres) in four different subregions across the island. Altitude here ranges from 1960 to 3280 feet (600 to1000m) above sea level, creating steep slopes within an undulating landscape. The steepest gradients are closely terraced and require manual farming practices. Many vines are approaching 100 years old with a handful of plots over 130 years having been planted prior to the phylloxera epidemic of the late 19th Century.
– Producer: Bodega Envínate is one of Spain’s most influential projects, focused on minimal‑intervention wines with strong terroir identity. In the Canaries, Envínate is a highly regarded winery situated in the Tenerife Island, known for its terroir-driven, low-intervention wines made from ancient, indigenous grape varieties. The project, founded in 2008 by four enology graduates—Roberto Santana, Alfonso Torrente, Laura Ramos, and José Martínez—focuses on expressing the unique volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands, particularly in the Valle de la Orotava, where the Migan Tinto is produced, and the Taganana region.
– Producer: Founded by Lluís Llach, Celler Vall Llach is one of the emblematic names of modern Priorat, and specialist in old‑vine Cariñena and Garnacha in Porrera. Their “trossos” (plots of land) are centenary farms, with vineyards between 90 and 110 years old of Carignan and Grenache. Their slopes are impressive and don’t allow mechanized work. They ensure we have an exclusive must for our selections. These vineyards are supplemented with others, chosen for their quality among the oldest and most famous in the villages of Porrera and Torroja, all cultivated by farmers who work on a regular basis with the winery. In addition, to further ensure the complexity of our wines, the winery planted a series of vineyards with grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Viognier.
– The Wine: from the same producer, its Style: Deep, powerful, mineral red with firm tannin.

















Tasting 283 November 18, 2025 Pinot Noir
NEW ZEALAND – The history of Pinot Noir in New Zealand is relatively young, but it’s a story of rapid rise and global acclaim. In just a few decades, New Zealand has established itself as one of the premier Pinot Noir producers in the Southern Hemisphere, known for purity, elegance, and vibrant fruit. The earliest vine plantings in New Zealand go back to the 1800s, brought by European settlers, but it didn’t catch on due to lack of wine infrastructure, limited viticultural knowledge, and inappropriate vineyard sites. It is only in the 1970s, that the modern New Zealand wine industry began to take shape, particularly in regions like Martinborough, Canterbury, and Central Otago, where the first producer recognized that the cool, dry climate and free-draining soils mirrored conditions in Burgundy The current trends are: greater focus on single-vineyard bottlings and sustainable practices; use of native yeasts, whole-bunch fermentation, and minimal intervention; and increasing comparisons to Burgundy, especially from Martinborough and Central Otago.
ARGENTINA – Pinot Noir in Argentina is a niche production, with about 2,000 hectares of cultivation. Making great Pinot Noir is often seen as the holy grail of winemaking, a quest that Argentine Producers have been chasing for decades. The earliest Pinot Noir success in Argentina was actually as sparkling wine and many of the Pinot Noir clones available in Argentina are Champagne clones used for sparkling wine rather than still reds. Since the 2000’s producers have changed their genetic selection and red Pinot Noir wines have improved greatly. The best Pinot Noir comes from the cooler regions of high altitude Uco Valley (notably Galtallary) and low altitude Rio Negro [Barnes, 2022].
UNITED STATES – Pinot Noir was first introduced to the U.S. in the mid-19th century, primarily by European immigrants bringing vine cuttings with them. Initial plantings were scattered and experimental, and the grape didn’t gain immediate traction due to its sensitivity to climate and soil. In the early 20th century, California saw some of the earliest serious attempts at cultivating Pinot Noir, particularly in areas like the Santa Cruz Mountains and later in Sonoma and Napa. However, it wasn’t until after Prohibition that efforts really picked up again. A major turning point came in the 1960’s when planting Pinot Noir began in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. By the 1980’s and 1990’s, both Oregon and cooler parts of California were producing world-class Pinot Noir. The grape became known for its elegance, complexity, and expression of terroir. American Pinot Noirs gained further credibility on the world stage after Eyrie’s 1975 South Block Reserve placed well in international tastings. Pinot Noir is now one of the most prestigious and sought-after varietals in the U.S. Willamette Valley is widely considered one of the top Pinot-producing regions in the world, and California continues to innovate with diverse styles ranging from bold to delicate. Stylistically, these wines range from types similar to Burgundy’s (leaner, with firmer tannins and earth and mineral accents) to plusher and riper versions with rich dark fruit and spice notes, and styles in between.
CHILE – Pinot Noir likely arrived in Chile in the 19th century, brought by European settlers. However, it was not widely planted or seriously cultivated mainly because Chile’s central wine regions were too warm for Pinot to thrive. In the 1990s, Chilean winemakers began exploring coastal regions, realizing the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean and Humboldt Current could support delicate grapes like Pinot Noir. Regions like Casablanca Valley, San Antonio Valley (especially Leyda), Limarí Valley, Bio-Bío and Itata in the south began to produce higher-quality, cooler-climate Pinot Noir. Winemakers started to use better clones of Pinot Noir (especially Dijon clones from Burgundy); implement lower yields and more precise vineyard management; and experiment with oak aging, whole-cluster fermentation, and minimal intervention techniques.
The wine – Vineyard & winemaking: this wine comes from the cool clay soils and rolling north facing slopes of Marlborough’s Southern Valleys region. The aged alluvial gravels and dense clay subsoils balance drainage and water availability to yield the region’s best Pinot Noir grapes. The key vineyards for this variety are Mustang, Delta and Barracks.
The Wine – Vineyard & winemaking: The vineyard soils are described as follows: depths of 0-40 cm: loose, sandy, loamy soil; between depths of 40-60 cm: reddish-hued compact calcium carbonate. Between depths of 60-110 cm: 90% boulder debris 5 cm in thickness, with dispersed calcium carbonate. Vineyard located in Gualtallary, Tupungato, elevation of 1450 m.s.n.m. (4757 feet). Fermentation is in roll-fermentor and 24 hL stainless steel tanks with 50% whole cluster. Fermented at an average temperature of 22ºC for 12 days. Aged 12 months in French oak (100% François Frères), 15% new barrels, 35% second-use and 50% third-use barrels.
The Wine – Vineyard & winemaking: the wine maker describes the soil of the vineyard, located in a steep slope on Chestnut Ridge, at a high elevation (around 1,800 feet), as weathered igneous rock of charnockite granite containing a complexity of quartz, pyroxene, feldspar converting to clay and other minerals. This wine is aged for 11 months in French oak barrels. (30% new French oak, with the remaining in neutral French oak).
The wine – Vineyard & winemaking: The wine is produced from fruits from the Quebrada Seca vineyard (Block 5 and Block 15) which is situated on the northern bank of the Limarí River at an altitude of 190m above sea level, just 22 kilometres from the Pacific Ocean. The soils are clay and rich in calcium carbonate; the temperatures are cool and the mornings cloudy, so the fruit ripens slowly, producing fresher wines. Block 5 is associated with the Santa Cristina soil series. They are of colluvial origin with angular stones and a high percentage of rusted iron-rich red clay and calcium carbonate in the subsoil. Block 15 is associated with the Quebrada Seca soil series. These are of colluvial origin, without angular stones and have a high percentage of rusted iron-rich clay and calcium carbonate. It has a semi-arid coastal climate. The proximity to the ocean and the cool sea breezes that blow directly towards the valley cool off and moderate the temperatures at the vineyard and this, together with the morning fog, results in slow, prolonged fruit ripening, making for fresher wines.

The very first thing to understand is that Greece is much more diverse in terms of climate than most people realize. The country has everything – from arid Mediterranean islands to wet, mountainous pine forests that receive snowfall in the winter. With such a diverse climate, you can expect Greek wines to be quite varied as well. So, one of the best ways to wrap your head around Greek wine is to split the country up into four overarching wine zones based on their climates.
The Best Wines from Greece – a summary
The Producer: Domaine Douloufakis Winery: In 1930, Dimitris Douloufakis became one of the first winemakers in Crete to produce wines professionally in his traditional, old winery. Their privately owned vineyards of 200 acres are located in the heart of the wine-growing zone of Crete, in Dafnes, Heraklion and at an altitude of 350 – 450 meters. The limestone soils of the area and the microclimate that prevails are considered ideal for the production of good quality grapes. This region has a long history in viticulture and also has been established as a Protected Designation of Origin for Liatiko wines .The privately owned vineyards are certified 100% organic and span over 70 acres of rolling hills in the Dafnes sub-region, a village close to Iraklio in Crete.
– The Producer: Greek Wine Cellars, formerly known as Kourtaki Wines, is a large, historic wine producing and blottling company in Greece. The company was founded in 1895 by Vassili Kourtakis, one of the first Greeks to gain a diploma in oenology. In 1905, the company established in Markopoulo, Mesogia, an old wine-growing region where it continues to operate today. The company has continuously expanded its operations to include several regional wineries across Greece, including Ritsona, the Peloponnese, and Crete. It encompasses several brands split in three divisions: Kourtaki, Calliga and Oenoforos. Their wines are produced under PDO and PGI appellations. The winery’s annual production is approximately 30 milion bottles, half of which is exported. The The Ritsona winery in central Greece has always been at the forefront in implementing new methods and investing in modern technology with the aim of constantly improving the wines it produces.
– The Producer: Kir-Yianni Estate was established in 1997 by Yiannis Boutaris, one of the leading figures in the Greek wine industry. Kir-Yianni, “Mr. John” in Greek, is best known for producing premium Xinomavro from the slopes of Mt. Vermio in Northwestern Greece. Today, Stellios Boutaris, son of Yiannis, actively manages the winery and their two 30+ year-old estate vineyards located in Naoussa and Amyndeon. The Kir-Yianni philosophy is a desire for innovation, respect for tradition and true knowledge of the wine, from the grape to the consumer.
– The Producer: Mitravelas Estate was founded in the city center in 1913 and later in the 1950’s the three Mitravelas brothers Andreas, Spyros and Nikos took over the winery. By the end of the 20th century, the family owns about 10 hectares of vineyards in various areas of Nemea zone. The winery is located in Achaldia, one of the best sites in Nevea. Some pieces of the land are formed of extremely old vines which are dry farmed non irrigated. This results in very small annual production and on the other hand excellent concentrations and ripeness of the grapes. Elements necessary for the highest quality in the wines produced. 




The Producer: Cloudy Bay Vineyards, established in 1985, is today a partnership with champagne house Veuve Clicquot. The winery and vineyards are situated in the Wairau Valley in Marlborough at the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island. This unique and cool wine region enjoys a maritime climate with the longest hours of sunshine of any place in New Zealand.
The Wine:
The Wine:
The Wine
Club del Vino Historic document of 2003
