Wine Leads the Way
Bulgaria: The Wine Heritage of the Balkans
Wine production in Bulgaria dates back to ancient times, with traditions that span thousands of years. From the ancient Thracians to modern winemakers, each region offers unique wines that reflect the rich cultural heritage and diverse terroir of the country.
Danube Plain – Northern Wine Region & Route
Situated between the Balkan Mountains and the Danube River, the Danube Plain is one of Bulgaria’s oldest wine regions. Viticulture here dates back to Roman times, and towns such as Ruse, Pleven, and Suhindol host both traditional and modern wineries. The region produces reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Gamza, as well as crisp whites such as Misket Vrachanski and Chardonnay.
The wine route takes visitors through historic centers, offering tastings of local wines combined with cultural landmarks and gastronomic experiences.
Agrofitness
Noya Winery
These wineries:
- Organize wine tours and tastings, have a restaurant and/or may offer traditional local dishes and specialties;
And some of them:
- Have a hotel part and a restaurant;
Thracian Valley – Southern Wine Region & Route
The Thracian Valley stretches around Plovdiv, Haskovo, and the Sakar Mountains and is the heart of Bulgarian winemaking. Vineyards here date back to the ancient Thracians, and the region is known for red varieties like Mavrud and Rubin, celebrated for their rich aroma and depth.
The wine route passes through historic vineyards and wineries, allowing visitors to taste local wines and experience the region’s cultural heritage.
Better Half
Divinex Winery
These wineries:
- Organize wine tours and tastings, have a restaurant and/or may offer traditional local dishes and specialties;
And some of them:
- Have a hotel part and a restaurant;
Black Sea Region – Eastern Wine Region & Route
The Black Sea Region covers the coast from Varna to Burgas and benefits from a mild maritime climate, perfect for white grapes such as Dimyat, Misket Varnenski, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Some reds like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are also successfully grown.
The wine route includes visits to wineries in Varna, Pomorie, and Burgas, where visitors can taste mineral-rich, elegant wines while enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
These wineries:
- Organize wine tours and tastings, have a restaurant and/or may offer traditional local dishes and specialties;
And some of them:
- Have a hotel part and a restaurant;
Struma Valley – Southwestern Wine Region & Route
The Struma Valley stretches from Blagoevgrad to Melnik and is known for its Mediterranean climate and unique varieties such as Shiroka Melnishka Loza. Most wines in the region are red, featuring intense aromas of red fruits and spices.
The route passes through historic wineries and vineyards, offering tastings and insights into local winemaking traditions.
Georgievi Bros. Winemakery Club
These wineries:
- Organize wine tours and tastings, have a restaurant and/or may offer traditional local dishes and specialties;
And some of them:
- Have a hotel part and a restaurant;
Valley of the Roses – Sub-Balkan Wine Region & Route
Located between the Balkan Mountains and the Sredna Gora, the Valley of the Roses is known for both its rose oil and the unique Red Misket variety. The region produces elegant and aromatic white wines that impress with finesse and character.
The wine route includes tastings in key towns such as Sliven, Karlovo, and Sungurlare, combining cultural and natural landmarks.
Kolarovo Wine Cellar
These wineries:
- Organize wine tours and tastings, have a restaurant and/or may offer traditional local dishes and specialties;
And some of them:
- Have a hotel part and a restaurant;