There are over 600 different types of grape in the world. Many Bulgarian wines are produced by selecting the finest grapes from the most select vines. Please see the descriptions below for more details.

The Bulgarian Melnik Grape

The variety called broad leave vine of Melnik, known also as Melnik, is one of the oldest varieties and is indigenous to Bulgaria.  It is grown exclusively around Melnik, the smallest town in Bulgaria and the nearby villages of Hursovo, Kromidovo, Marikostinovo, Vinogradi, Lozenitza and Hotovo.

Melnik is a late-ripening variety, harvested in the middle of October.  It is thought that the Thracians brought the variety over from Asia in 2000BC.  Proof of this can be found in the antique epos, where Homer mentions in the "Iliad" the wonderful elixir, brought from Thrace.  The wines produced from this grape are fruity, with soft tannins, and a typical taste of the variety.  The grapes are small, with thin blue skin and broad leaves which can be up to 23 cms in diameter.  Some wines have an aroma of tobacco and leather, and are suitable for ageing in oak barrels which bring out a warmth and sophistication in the taste.

These southern wines initially impress with their deep ruby colour, characteristic aroma, Madeira-like taste and high alcohol content.  This combination makes Melnik wines suitable for several years ageing.

 For a true taste of the outstanding Melnik grape, please try the award winning Bulgarian Uniqato Melnik 2002.

The Bulgarian Merlot Grape

The Merlot grape is an early ripening grape that matures before the Cabernet Sauvignon grape in the growing season and that grows better in cooler, constant climates as compared to very hot, dry climates therefore, late rain or a sudden cold front at the end of the growing season, (which would severely affect Cabernet Sauvignon grapes), will not affect the harvesting of Merlot grapes. The Merlot grape tends to have a comparatively thin skin which is why it produces wines that are less tannic and lighter in colour compared to wines produced by Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

Merlot grapes are used in the following Prestige Churchill Wines - ReDark 2000, No Man's Land Gold and No Man's Land Silver.

The Bulgarian Cabernet Sauvignon Grape

Cabernet Sauvignon is a brash, vigorous vine that grows easily. Cabernet produces small, round berries that are thick-skinned and blue tinged. It is known for its high level of tannins, dense ruby colour and medium to full body. One of the most characteristic aromas of this grape is cassis or blackcurrant with hints of cedar, truffles and plums.

Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are used in the following Prestige Churchill Wines - No Man's Land Gold and No Man's Land Silver.

The Bulgarian Chardonnay Grape

Chardonnay is a vigorous, heavy cropping grape variety with medium sized bunches. The bunches have tightly packed berries forming a single cluster unlike loosely spaced Shiraz bunches. A ripe Chardonnay berry is gold-yellow in colour with plenty of juice. Berries are small, fragile, thin-skinned and require care during harvest to avoid oxidisation.

Chardonnay grapes are used in the following Prestige Churchill Wines - Damianitza Chardonnay.