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The Ankara subregion, located in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, is an up-and-coming wine destination in the country, which holds a significant position in the global wine landscape. While not as well-known as other regions, Ankara is making a name for itself with its many vineyards and unique wines, especially those made from the indigenous Kalecik Karası grape.
The vineyards, often found along the Kızılırmak River and in towns like Kalecik, benefit from the region’s continental climate and produce wines with distinctive flavours that reflect the local terroir.
Ankara, the capital of Turkey, boasts a winemaking tradition that spans thousands of years. The region was historically known as “Engürü,” a name derived from the Persian word for grape, underscoring the long-standing importance of viticulture in the area. This ancient connection between the land and wine production is a testament to Ankara’s enduring winemaking heritage, which has seen the cultivation of indigenous grape varieties and the development of distinctive wines over centuries.
Despite the pressures of modern urbanization, particularly in the capital city, the legacy of winemaking has not been entirely lost. One of the most prominent symbols of this is the Atatürk Forest Farm, established by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, who recognized the cultural and economic significance of winemaking. This institution remains a symbol of Ankara’s commitment to preserving its agricultural roots amidst its urban growth. Additionally, the nearby Kalecik district has emerged as a key player in maintaining Ankara’s winemaking reputation, particularly with the production of wines from the indigenous Kalecik Karası grape.
Although the wine industry in Ankara is smaller than in many of the world’s major wine regions, the passion for cultivating grapes and crafting wines remains vibrant. One standout in this tradition is the Emir grape, a rare variety that has long been associated with the region. Often produced in a traditional French winemaking style, Emir offers unique flavours that set it apart, allowing Ankara’s wines to stand competitively alongside those of more globally recognized producers. With its rich history and ongoing dedication to winemaking, Ankara continues to carve out a special place in the broader Turkish wine industry.
Ankara's geography plays a significant role in shaping its wines. The high elevation (around 650 meters), well-drained soils, and dry, semi-arid climate create ideal conditions for grape growing. The Kızılırmak River and surrounding mountains also contribute to the unique microclimate. These factors result in wines with bright acidity and complex flavours, particularly those made from Kalecik Karası grapes.
Ankara’s terroir is a hidden gem characterized by high altitude, diverse soil types (volcanic to alluvial), and significant day-night temperature variations. This combination produces wines with distinct mineral notes and deep flavours. The hot days allow grapes to ripen fully, while cool nights preserve acidity and aromatics, resulting in well-balanced, full-bodied wines with unique character.
The Emir grape, known for its rarity and traditional French winemaking style, contributes to the terroir of Ankara by adding unique mineral notes and a distinct flavour profile that pairs well with various foods.
Turkey as a country presents both advantages and challenges for grape growing, particularly in Ankara’s climate. Hot, dry summers often require irrigation due to limited rainfall, and climate change introduces unpredictable weather patterns that could affect future harvests. However, resilient grape varieties like Kalecik Karası are well-suited to these conditions, offering hope for the region’s continued success.
High alcohol taxes in Turkey make wine less accessible to locals and increase prices for international consumers, potentially limiting the region’s growth. However, Ankara’s proximity to tourist destinations presents its producers with an opportunity to attract visitors interested in local wines.
By focusing on indigenous grape varieties and showcasing the region’s unique terroir, Ankara’s winemakers can carve out a niche in both domestic and international markets. The revival of Turkey's wine culture has also positively impacted the local economy, making the country an intriguing destination for wine enthusiasts.
Ankara’s wine industry is experiencing a wave of excitement and innovation. Producers are adopting modern techniques while respecting traditional practices. Sustainable farming, including organic and biodynamic methods, is becoming more common.
Wine tourism is also growing, with visitors seeking authentic experiences like vineyard tours, tastings, and food and wine pairing events. The traditional French winemaking style used with the Emir grape enhances the quality of these wines, making them a competitive offering against more established producers.
Vineyard Hectares
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The Ankara subregion boasts a stunning landscape characterized by rolling hills and extensive vineyards. The Kızılırmak River meanders through the countryside, adding a touch of tranquillity to the otherwise rugged, rural terrain. The surrounding hills and mountains provide a striking contrast to the neatly arranged rows of grapevines that span the fertile plains, creating a visually appealing panorama.
The landscape is characterized by charming villages and traditional farmhouses, contributing to the area's peaceful and rustic ambiance. This combination of natural beauty and agricultural activity lends the region a timeless quality, where modern winemaking practices flourish within a serene setting. The Kızılırmak River's proximity to the vineyards not only enhances the land's fertility but also adds to the scenic allure, making the Ankara subregion an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts who seek to combine their appreciation for fine wines with stunning visual landscapes.
The climate of the Ankara subregion in Central Anatolia is characterized by its continental nature, which translates to hot, dry summers and cold winters. During the summer months, temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), creating optimal conditions for grape ripening. In contrast, winters are notably cold, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing and occasional snowfall.
One of the most interesting aspects of the region's climate, particularly during the growing season, is the significant temperature difference between day and night. The warm daytime temperatures allow the grapes to fully ripen, while the cooler nighttime temperatures help preserve the grapes' acidity, which is essential for producing well-balanced wines.
Finally, the region receives relatively low rainfall, averaging around 300 mm (12 inches) per year, with most of the precipitation occurring during the winter and early spring months. This dry climate, in combination with the cold winters, makes Ankara an ideal location for cultivating grape varieties such as Kalecik Karası and Chardonnay.
The soils in the Ankara subregion play a crucial role in determining the character and quality of its wines, offering a combination of properties that support the growth of various grape varieties.
The Ankara subregion, located in Central Anatolia, is home to a wide range of international grape varieties and Turkish grape varieties that thrive in the region's unique climate and soil conditions. These grapes have adapted to the local terroir, producing wines with unique characteristics.
The Ankara subregion is quickly gaining recognition among wine enthusiasts for its unique blend of native and international grape varieties. The wines produced in this region are a true reflection of its distinct climate and soil conditions, offering a diverse range of flavours and styles to suit every palate.
These wines, coupled with other styles like Sauvignon Blanc, offer a unique expression of the terroir and style of the Ankara province.
One of the defining characteristics of Ankara wines is the harmonious balance between fruity ripeness and crisp acidity. The region's warm daytime temperatures allow grapes to achieve optimal ripeness, resulting in wines with rich and concentrated flavours. Simultaneously, the cooler nights help preserve the grapes' natural acidity, ensuring that the wines remain vibrant and refreshing. This balance is particularly evident in both red and white wines from Ankara, contributing to their distinct complexity and overall appeal.
The Kızılırmak River Valley and Kalecik are two of the most notable wine-producing areas within Ankara. These regions provide ideal growing conditions for the area's primary grape varieties and are increasingly popular destinations for wine tourists. Many wineries in these areas offer tastings and tours, allowing visitors to sample a wide range of local wines and gain insights into the region's winemaking practices.
Food and wine pairing is an integral part of the Ankara wine experience. Kalecik Karası is an excellent companion for grilled meats and robust Turkish dishes, while white wines like Narince and Chardonnay pair well with seafood and vegetable-based cuisine. Wines made from the Emir grape are particularly well-suited for pairing with light appetizers, seafood, and creamy cheeses. Many wineries and tour operators in Ankara offer carefully curated food and Turkish wine pairing experiences, highlighting the region’s culinary heritage and its compatibility with local wines.
For those seeking a more immersive wine tourism experience, Ankara offers a selection of boutique hotels and vineyard accommodations. These establishments often provide comprehensive wine-related activities, such as vineyard tours, tastings, and even hands-on winemaking workshops, allowing guests to engage fully with the region and country's wine culture.
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