Discover the Rich World of Turkish Wine: Sparkling Stars and Rising Grapes
While Türkiye may not be the first name you think of in the wine world, it should be. With a winemaking history that predates France and Italy, Turkish wine is one of the most exciting categories emerging on the global stage. The country is home to over 1,500 indigenous grape varieties, stunning terroirs, and bold producers blending history with modern winemaking.
Whether you're a sommelier, wine collector, or an adventurous drinker, Turkish wine offers something unique — especially when it comes to its native grapes.
1. Turkish Sparkling Wine: Made with the Traditional Method
Türkiye is producing some seriously impressive sparkling wines, and they’re not made with shortcuts. These wines use the Traditional Method (the same process used in Champagne), resulting in fine bubbles, aging potential, and complexity.
Many winemakers are experimenting with both international and indigenous grape varieties. You’ll find sparkling wines made from Narince, a native white grape known for its citrusy freshness and minerality.
Top Regions for Sparkling Wine in Türkiye:
Ankara region (home to Vinkara)
Thrace (northwest Türkiye, near the European border)
Aegean coast, especially near Izmir
These wines bring together precision winemaking and Turkish terroir, offering a fresh alternative to Prosecco and Cava.
2. Kalecik Karası: The Elegant Turkish Red
Kalecik Karası is one of Türkiye’s most important native red grapes. Grown near the town of Kalecik in Central Anatolia, this grape is beloved for its soft tannins, bright fruit, and easy-drinking style — often drawing comparisons to Pinot Noir.
Tasting Profile:
Aromas: Red cherry, wild strawberry, violet
Structure: Light to medium body, silky texture, balanced acidity
Pairing Ideas: Grilled vegetables, lamb köfte, roast chicken
Thanks to its elegance and approachability, Kalecik Karası is often the first Turkish red wine recommended to new drinkers. Wineries like Diren, Likya, and Sevilen craft some of the best examples.
3. Merzifon Karası: A New Grape to Watch
Merzifon Karası is a lesser-known grape from the Amasya region in Northern Türkiye, gaining traction for its depth and potential. It’s being spearheaded by innovative producers like 502 Vineyards, who are focusing on boutique, small-batch production to showcase the grape’s character.
Tasting Notes:
Aromas: Blackberry, dried plum, black tea, floral hints
Palate: Structured with earthy notes and a medium finish
Ageability: Moderate aging potential, especially in oak-aged versions
Merzifon Karası represents the new generation of Turkish winemaking — proud of local heritage but unafraid to innovate.
Other Notable Turkish Wine Grapes You Should Know
Türkiye’s strength lies in its indigenous grapes, many of which you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Here are a few worth discovering:
Top Turkish Red Wine Grapes:
Öküzgözü: Juicy and vibrant, often blended with Boğazkere. From Eastern Anatolia.
Boğazkere: Bold and tannic, perfect for aging. Grown in Diyarbakır.
Papazkarası: From Thrace, with spicy red fruit and medium structure.
Top Turkish White Wine Grapes:
Narince: Delicate and floral with good acidity — perfect for whites or sparkling.
Emir: Crisp and mineral-driven, often grown in Cappadocia’s volcanic soils.
Bornova Misketi: A Muscat-like grape with fragrant floral aromatics.
Fun Fact: Although Türkiye has over 1,500 native grape varieties, only about 30 are currently used in commercial winemaking — leaving massive potential for future discoveries.
Conclusion: Turkish Wine Is Just Getting Started
The global wine world is opening up to what Turkish wine has to offer — and it’s about time. From ancient roots in Anatolia to forward-thinking producers crafting world-class reds, whites, and sparkling wines, Türkiye is entering a golden era of winemaking.
Exploring Turkish indigenous grapes like Kalecik Karası, Merzifon Karası, and Narince opens up a world of flavor, history, and cultural depth. As more sommeliers and wine buyers begin to look beyond the usual regions, Türkiye offers a compelling and authentic voice in global wine.
Whether you’re stocking your wine list, studying for a wine exam, or just sipping something new, don’t overlook the rich story and bold future of Turkish wine.
