WASHINGTON — Looking for a wine with a storied history, that’s delicious to drink and inexpensive to try? Well, consider trying something from the east — as in Eastern Europe.
Bulgaria has been slowly reemerging back onto the wine scene in a quiet but steady way, first in Great Britain, but now on our side of the pond. With new equipment and improved quality, along with the emergence of a new generation of young, dedicated winemakers, Bulgaria is quickly gaining a reputation as being able to deliver delicious white and red wines at a remarkable value.
Today, there are many Bulgarian wineries that are making major inroads onto store shelves in our area. So the next time you’re in the mood to raise some eyebrows, consider opening a bottle — and some palates — with a little history and a lot of flavor.
2012 Chateau Burgozone Chardonnay
This chardonnay breaks away from the typical varietal profile, with aromas of freshly cut grass and lemongrass. Delightful tropical fruit flavors of mango, lychee and guava dominate the palate. The zesty, clean and crisp finish is characterized by flavors of lemon pith and lime juice. $16
2012 Bulgariana Cabernet Sauvignon, Thracian Valley, Bulgaria
It is a vivid dark purple color with violet nuances, and an elegant and fruity nose that hints of black cherry, blackberry and a spicy earthy character. This wine is fresh and juicy on the palate with pleasant accents of cherry, nuts and pepper, and traces of fine tannins. $13
2011 K Cellars Pinot Noir
The aromatic beauty offers aromas of red and black berries, fresh jam and milk chocolate. The wine has a luscious palate with flavors of strawberries, cranberries and fresh cherries. It finishes with a pleasant, slight earthy character. $14
2009 Bulgariana Imperial Red Blend, Thracian Valley, Bulgaria
This wine is a blend of two uniquely Bulgarian grapes, Rubin and Mavrud, and two grapes that are universally known, merlot and cabernet sauvignon. This complex and well-balanced wine will appeal to people who like full-bodied and spicy wines. It has a little bit of everything in this complex, multi-faceted wine, with flavors of black cherry, blackberry jam, roast plums and cinnamon on the front of the palate, and notes of toasty vanilla and leather on the long, luscious finish. $16
