GG_N52_FR

BULGARIA
DISCOVERY
is its main home, and was named after the famous
Rosa damascena (commonly known as Bulgarian
rose or Damask rose) used for rose oil production.
Red Misket wines have a clear pale-straw colour
with green shades. When fermented dry, the variety
develops rich floral aromas and hints of yellow and
tropical fruits. There are also nuances of rose petals
and sweet violet on the finish. Red Misket wines are
medium to medium plus in body with exceptional
balance and well-integrated acidity.
THE VINEYARDS AT ORBELIA
MELNIK
There are two different clones of this variety:
Broadleafed Melnik and Early Melnik, also
known as Melnik 55, a crossing between the local
Broadleafed Melnik and the French, early ripening
Valdiguié. The first cultivar has become the
signature grape varietal of the Struma River Valley,
covering 2% of total vineyard acreage nationwide.
When young, the wines offer under-ripe black fruit,
spices, liquorice and very pronounced crushed black
pepper, with in some places volcanic rocks and flint
in the aromatic profile. In recent times “Blanc de
Noir” styles have emerged, delivering outstanding
results for traditional method sparkling wine.
THE VINEYARDS AT KAPATOVO
MAVRUD
The name Mavrud probably originates from the
Greek word “mavro” which means “black” and
referred to the grape’s blueish-black skin colour
Mavrud is an old, red grape variety that has
been grown in Bulgaria since ancient times. The
birthplace of Mavrud is the area around the city
of Plovdiv in the Western part of the PGI Thracian
Lowlands. Most Mavrud vineyards remain in
its birthplace, followed by the Southern Black Sea
Coast, Sakar, and the Struma Valley. It covers 2%
of Bulgaria’s area under vine. Wines made from
Mavrud vary in style, depending on their terroir
and yields. Mavrud wines develop gracefully when
aged in oak. Mavrud works very well in blends with
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah.
RUBIN
Rubin is a successful crossing between Syrah and
Nebbiolo and was created in 1944 at the Pleven
48 SUMMER 2023 • GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE FRENCH EXPERTS ON WINE