Turkish Wines; A Journey Through Tradition and Innovation
When one considers fine wines, regions such as France, Italy, and California often spring to mind. However, there exists a hidden gem in the world of wine that’s been garnering recognition for its quality and diversity: Turkey. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey boasts a longstanding history of winemaking dating back thousands of years. Today, Turkish wines are making waves in the global wine scene, offering a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and exceptional flavours.
Recently, I was lucky enough to discover the wines of Turkey on a trip to Istanbul. This sprawling city where east meets west, cuisines and cultures intertwine and cats prowl the streets like pedestrians, a true undiscovered delight of the wine world awaits. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Turkish wines and uncover the treasures to discover.
History and Heritage of Turkish Wines
The tradition of winemaking in Turkey stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of wine production dating as far back as 6000 BC. Regions such as Thrace, Anatolia, and Cappadocia have long been renowned for their vineyards and unique grape varietals. Historically, wine played a significant role in the culture and rituals of ancient civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, and Greeks, all of whom inhabited the region at various points in history.
Despite its rich winemaking heritage, Turkey’s modern wine industry faced challenges over the centuries, including periods of prohibition and political turmoil. However, in recent decades, a resurgence of interest in Turkish wines has led to significant advancements in quality and production.
Terroir and Microclimates
Turkey’s diverse geography, which encompasses a wide range of climates and terrains, provides ideal conditions for grape cultivation. From the coastal vineyards of the Aegean and Mediterranean to the high-altitude slopes of Eastern Anatolia, each region offers its own unique terroir, influencing the character of the wines produced there.
For example, the volcanic soils of Cappadocia impart a distinct minerality to the wines, while the cool mountain breezes of Thrace help retain acidity in the grapes, resulting in vibrant and refreshing wines. Turkish winemakers embrace these diverse terroirs, allowing them to craft wines that reflect the true essence of their land.
Innovation and Excellence
While rooted in tradition, Turkey’s wine industry is also marked by innovation and ambition. In recent years, a new generation of winemakers has emerged, eager to push the boundaries and elevate Turkish wines to international acclaim.
Experimental techniques, such as amphora aging and natural fermentation, are gaining popularity among Turkish winemakers, resulting in wines that are both expressive and unique. Moreover, investment in modern winemaking equipment and techniques has led to improvements in quality and consistency across the industry.
Must-Try Turkish Grape Varieties
Kalecik Karası (pair with Lamb Kebabs): Flavour Profile: Known as one of Turkey’s premier indigenous grape varietals, Kalecik Karası produces elegant and medium-bodied red wines. Expect vibrant aromas of red fruits such as cherry and raspberry, with hints of spice and earthiness. On the palate, these wines are characterised by their silky texture, balanced acidity, and soft tannins, culminating in a smooth and lingering finish.
Narince (pair with Seafood Meze): Flavour Profile: Narince is a white grape variety native to the Tokat region of Turkey, renowned for its crisp acidity and aromatic complexity. Wines made from Narince grapes exhibit delicate floral notes of jasmine and honeysuckle, intertwined with hints of citrus fruits and green apple. With a refreshing acidity and a touch of minerality, Narince wines offer a lively and harmonious palate, perfect for pairing with seafood or poultry dishes.
Öküzgözü (pair with Spicy Meats and Vegetables): Flavour Profile: Öküzgözü, with its intriguing name translating to “ox-eye” in Turkish, is another red grape variety that excites the palate with its unique flavours. Expect bright and juicy red berry aromas, accompanied by subtle herbal undertones and a hint of black pepper. Medium-bodied and approachable, Öküzgözü wines boast lively acidity and soft tannins, making them versatile companions for a variety of cuisines, from grilled meats to vegetarian fare.
