The Turks have long been making good wines. It is just a shame their government is not so supportive. I do believe these great winemakers will eventually succeed one of these days, despite the hurdles they face. The grapes are hard to pronounce and they are no longer super affordable thanks to the yo-yo of the Turkish Lira. I can’t even imagine how expensive they are for local residents who don’t have C-Suite jobs.
Thanks to the highly gracious Wines of Turkey, I was able to take in some of the beautiful countryside a few hours outside Istanbul in the ancient region of Thrace. First stop was Dessera Vineyards, a charming resort in the heart of wine country. Cozy rooms with beamed ceilings and vineyard views are welcoming before you head to dinner for local Turkish dishes in front of a roaring fire. The Okuzgozu, one of Turkey’s signature red grapes, along with the Cabernet Franc. The Okugozu tends to be corpulent and complex while Cabernet Franc is is its elusive self wherever you make it.
Arcadia Vineyards
This elegant winery is home to some lovely rooms, a divine prix-fixe restaurant and even a custom-crush operation. The ladies in the spa are even Thai and do divine Thai massage. Arcadia is an indulgent destination with bespoke rooms and caring staff. There is a beautiful pool available in summer and super-local foods sourced in the dining room. One of my favorite wines was the Odrysia 2022 a dry white that pairs beautifully with food.
The winery is clearly thinking above and beyond by offering custom-crush facilities to those who are interested. It is a trend that started the U.S. and has picked that has also been seen in a few places abroad, such as Mendoza, but one that clearly attracts an upper-crust following. The winery also has private residences owned by Istanbul-based movers and shakers who want some time in the countryside. The winery could not reveal names but it sounds like a good antidote for stressed, and traffic-laden city life.
