25 June—3 July 2024 & Summer 2025
8 nights || 9 days
Travel program led by Dr. Joseph Benatov of the University of Pennsylvania
Bulgaria Wine Tour Itinerary: Sofia—Rose Valley—Thracian Valley— Zaara Estate—Plovdiv—Bansko—Melnik—Zornitza Family Estate—Rila Monastery—Sofia
Bulgaria, a hidden gem nestled in Southeast Europe, occupying the eastern quarter of the Balkan peninsula, is one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions, with a viticulture history tracing back to the Thracian times. With a wine-making tradition that spans over five millennia, it’s no wonder that the wines of Bulgaria carry a unique sense of timelessness.
Bulgarian wines offer an array of varied and distinctive flavors, thanks to the country’s diverse topography. From the moderate continental climate of the Danube River Plain to the Mediterranean climate of the Thracian Lowland and the transitional continental climate of the Eastern and Southwestern regions, the geographical conditions play a key role in the distinct character of these wines.
Particularly renowned are its red wines, chief among them, the indigenous ‘Mavrud’ and ‘Broadleaf Melnik’. Mavrud, typically grown in the Thracian Lowland, carries robust flavors of ripe black fruit and spice, overlaid with firm tannins. On the other hand, Broadleaf Melnik, grown near the border with Greece, has an affinity for oak and can produce pronounced tobacco notes.
Bulgaria’s white wines, such as the aromatic ‘Dimyat’, shouldn’t be overlooked. The Dimyat grapes typically produce a light-bodied wine with a floral bouquet and fruity palate, making it an excellent partner for seafood dishes.
In recent years, Bulgarian wines have started to gain recognition on the international stage, with many wineries winning awards for their exceptional blends. Today, one can find a keen interest globally in exploring the wines of Bulgaria. Imbibers often find themselves captivated by the quality, diversity, and most importantly, the distinctive character of these wines which wonderfully encapsulate Bulgaria’s rich wine-making heritage.
On your gourmet wine-and-dine adventure, you can expect:
◆ Overnights in two luxurious wine estates and two refined 5-star hotels
◆ Wine tasting at 12+ wineries and additional thematic wine events in Sofia and Plovdiv
◆ Two gourmet tasting menu dinners prepared by two of Bulgaria’s top chefs
◆ Delicious rustic homemade meals in villages along the way
◆ Presentations by Bulgaria’s leading wine experts, enologists, vintners, and sommeliers
◆ An unforgettable travel extravaganza for all your senses
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