COLOUR
Red
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2016
GRAPE
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
PRODUCER
Villa Yambol
REGION
Thracian Lowlands
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
Tannins
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Vineyards Selection is the micro-terroir collector's series from Villa Yambol, one of Bulgaria's oldest and most respected estates, established in 1924. This premium red blend comes from the Tenevo micro-region in the pristine Tundzha River Valley. The vineyards, planted in 2005, are uniquely arranged according to a 'Wind Rose' compass layout to map air currents, protecting the vines from frost while utilizing cooling sea breezes to preserve natural acidity. The 2016 vintage represents a historic milestone for the estate, achieving critical domestic acclaim and demonstrating the potential of Bulgarian terroir to produce elegant, structurally complex Bordeaux-style blends with moderate alcohol.
ALCOHOL
13.0%
AVG. PRICE
€23
STYLE
Classic
SULPHITES
YES
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
16-18°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
The vineyards are planted in a 'Wind Rose' compass layout to harness cooling sea breezes and protect against frost.
Fact 02
Villa Yambol operates its own cooperage, crafting local Bulgarian oak barrels alongside classic French barriques.
Fact 03
This 2016 vintage ranked #5 in the DiVino TOP 50 Best Bulgarian Wines, scoring 91 points.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The grapes were hand-harvested from early September through mid-October in small custom crates to prevent bruising. Vinification took place in small-capacity open-top fermentation vats and micro-fermenters, including traditional open fermentation in barrels crafted from local Bulgarian oak. To balance structure and fresh fruit character, 65% of the blend was aged for 16 months in French oak barrels, while the remaining 35% was kept in inert vessels to preserve the vibrant primary cherry and red pepper characteristics.
