Bulgaria reports around 148,000 acres (60.000 hectares) of vineyards with a production size placing it 22nd in the world (as per 2016 data). The country receives around 2,200 to 2,500 sunlight hours per year, which is similar to Northern Italy, Southern France, and Northern Spain and Portugal. Temperatures in the summer are moderated by the Black Sea, allowing for a mild summer that maintains acidity in varieties.
Since 2005 Bulgaria has two official wine growing regions: Danube Plain and Thracian Valley. Both are PGIs (Protected Geographic Indication). As per professionals within the Bulgarian wine industry the country should be separated into 9 total regions: Danubian plain, North Black Sea Coast, South Black Sea Coast, East Thracian Valley, West Thracian Valley, Rose Valley, Sakar and Struma River Valley.
Red wines dominate Bulgaria. Some of the most popular are: Mavrud, Melnik 55, Rubin, Kadarka. Among the good white ones are: Red Misket, Dimyat and Muscat Blanc.
The region of Varna is favourable for growing white varieties of grapes such as Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Traminer and Varna Muscatel.
Wineries near Varna:
You can find out more about the cellars and tasting possibilities in Varna in the "Wine cellars" section.
