When I think of different countries and/or regions known for
wine production, I must be honest, Bulgaria isn’t one of the first that comes
to mind. This week’s Wine Wednesday
feature, the 2011 Bulgariana Cabernet Sauvignon & Syrah Blend piqued my
curiosity and caused me to do a little research.
In the 80’s, Bulgaria was the world’s second
largest producer of wine, but the collapse of communism caused the industry to
decline. However, it is on its way back to the extent that the Thracian
Valley is one of Wine Enthusiast’s Top 10 Wine Travel Destinations for 2017. Who want's to go?
The Thracian Valley (Southern Bulgaria) produces Mavrud (a
red varietal thought to be indigenous to the area) as well as Merlot and
Cabernet Sauvignon among others.
Bulgariana is a 50%/50% blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.
It has an intense deep garnet color. On the nose, blackberry, cassis, very very ripe plum and coffee. On the palate, it wasn't as aggressive as I might have expected from a wine of 14.8% alcohol by
volume. It started out very fruit forward, slightly sweet and sort of jammy in
the middle with a welcomed peppery finish.
Incidentally, the wine wasn’t quite as sturdy the second day. It was a touch sweeter, though it kept its
peppery finish, which made it a great pairing for barbecue and sloppy joes. We
enjoyed this with Grilled Lamb Chops with Walnut and Herb Pesto the first night and Chipotle Chili Sloppy
Joes the next. Try also with venison or bison. Click the links below to print or save the recipe pairing suggestions.
