Istanbul Wineries, Pairing the Past with the Present

What was once an overlooked aspect of Turkey’s culinary culture is now emerging as a rising star on the international wine scene. Wines by Turkish winemakers are turning heads and demanding attention from connoisseurs around the world.  

For decades, the Turkish wine industry remained a well-kept secret, operating in the shadows of the country’s more famous beverage exports like Turkish coffee and tea. However, a quiet renaissance has been taking place in Turkey’s historic wine regions. Winemakers are rediscovering long-forgotten grape varieties and marrying traditional techniques with modern innovations to create unique, terroir-driven wines that are distinctly Turkish.

At the forefront of this  revival is the ancient winemaking region of Cappadocia in central Anatolia. This otherworldly landscape of petrified volcanic ash and carved-out cave dwellings has been home to grapevine cultivation since antiquity. Today, boutique wineries are popping up, utilizing Cappadocia’s mineral-rich “tufa” soil and continental climate to produce highly acclaimed wines from indigenous grapes like Kalecik Karası, Öküzgözü, and Boğazkere.

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Göreme Open Air Museum provides a stunning backdrop for wine tastings amidst centuries-old rock-carved churches and frescoes. To discover the deep-rooted history and culture surrounding Anatolian winemaking you can join expert guides for educational vineyard tours. 

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

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As expected Istanbul is at the epicenter of this Turkish wine resurgence. The city’s innovative restaurants and chic wine bars are embracing regional varieties, creating the perfect pairings of ancient flavours with modern Turkish cuisine. Wine enthusiasts staying in Istanbul can easily arrange day trips into the nearby Thracian wine-making regions to explore boutique wineries and meet the passionate vintners behind Turkey’s wine renaissance.

One gem in Istanbul  is Solera Winery, located in Beyoglu. A delightful place to enjoy some good turkish wines in a very cosy and friendly atmosphere.