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The Rose Valley, also known as the Valley of Roses wine region, is a wine region located in the heart of Bulgaria. While not as famous as areas like the Thracian Valley or the Struma River Valley, Plovdiv is considered the top cultural and wine tourism destination in the Valley of Roses.
Bulgaria is the biggest producer and exporter of rose oil worldwide, a testament to the region's importance in rose cultivation. The Rosa Damascena, a symbol of Bulgaria, has been cultivated in this region for centuries, further enriching its cultural and historical significance.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
The Rose Valley wine region starts at the foot of the Sredna Gora (Middle Forest) mountain and ends when it reaches the sub-Balkan region. Here, you will find a lot of options to taste amazing wines. But, without a doubt, a Rose Valley winery you cannot miss is the Rumelia Winery. Additionally, Domain Trifonoff and Chateau Copsa are wineries in the Valley of Roses offering wine-tasting experiences. Among the most planted red grape varieties in the Valley are Red Misket, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which contribute to the region's diverse wine offerings. Wine produced in the Valley of Roses is often aged in oak barrels for added quality.
The Rose Valley is located in a region surrounded by mountains with the Balkan Mountains (Stara Planina) to the north, preventing the cold air from settling in the Valley. This prevents the vineyards from being affected by extreme temperatures and allows the wines produced in the region to be of excellent quality. In addition, the Balkan Mountains provide the Valley with excellent ventilation. During the rose-picking season, which lasts from May to June, the area is covered with multi-colored flowers and gives off a pleasant scent, adding to its charm and appeal. The traditional gathering of roses is typically a woman's task and requires great dexterity.
The soil of this Bulgarian wine region is dominated by brown and cinnamon forest soils, which offer ideal conditions for growing grapes. These soils are generally highly fertile. They contain a rich organic matter content, which provides essential nutrients for grapevine growth and development. These soils are typically well-balanced in terms of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are vital for healthy grapevine growth and fruit production. The soils also offer good drainage, which makes them resistant to certain grapevine diseases, such as phylloxera, a devastating pest that affects vine roots. The loose structure and adequate drainage of these soils make it more challenging for phylloxera to infest and damage the root systems of grapevines.
Bulgaria is a very small country. You can drive across the country in as little as 6 hours. As such, the wine regions do not have their own Sustainability programs but rather work at the national level. In general, the sustainability programs in Bulgaria focus on various aspects such as vineyard management, winemaking processes, energy usage, water conservation, waste management, and social responsibility. Some of the common sustainability practices implemented by wineries and wine regions include:
The region's mild climate, well-distributed rainfall, and fertile soils create ideal conditions for cultivating both indigenous and international grape varieties. Below is an overview of the most common grapes in the Rose Valley, organized into red and white varieties, with details about their specific growing requirements. Among these, the Red Misket grape stands out as an ancient Bulgarian varietal that is not found in many places outside of the Valley of Roses. Most planted white grape varieties in the Valley include Chardonnay, Muscat, and Traminer, which thrive in the region's favorable conditions.
In addition, other international grapes like Sauvignon Blanc are grown within this region.
The Rose Valley wine region stands out especially for its excellent quality dry white wines, which will surely surprise you thanks to their freshness and aromatic profile. In particular, one of the wines we recommend you to try is Red Misket wine. Fun fact: Despite its name, this variety is not red but rather white with pinkish skin. Red Misket wines showcase floral aromas accompanied by hints of yellow and tropical fruits like mango. Additionally, these wines have hints of green, further enhancing their complexity and appeal.
Dry white wines produced with this variety not only stand out for their level of natural acidity, which will make them feel very refreshing on the palate, but also for being very balanced wines with an aroma profile in which floral notes of rose petals or violets stand out.
This region will amaze you not only with its breathtaking views of both the fields full of roses and the imposing hills of the Balkan (Stara Planina) mountain, but also with its fantastic wines. Not only are native varieties, such as the red grape Cherven Misket, grown in this region, but international varieties, such as Merlot or Chardonnay, are also grown. Visitors to the Valley of Roses can enjoy wine-tasting experiences in family-run wineries. The local cuisine in the Valley of Roses is a melting pot of Bulgarian and Mediterranean flavors, making it an ideal destination for food and wine enthusiasts. If you are looking for a unique and memorable wine-tasting experience, then Rose Valley will offer you that and more! Additionally, visitors can try traditional sweet treats like Kazanlak Donuts, a specialty from the town of Kazanlak. Another must-try dish is Kjuftete Po Chirpanski, a traditional Bulgarian dish featuring meatballs in tomato sauce.
The cuisine of the Valley of Roses is typically Bulgarian with Mediterranean influences, offering a delightful pairing with the local wines. Traditional dishes in the Valley of Roses often pair well with local wines. A local delicacy to try is Rose Jam, made from Damask rose petals, sugar, and water.
The Rose Valley wine region in Bulgaria, also known as the Valley of Roses, has a fascinating history closely tied to the cultivation of roses and the production of rose oil. Here's an overview of its historical significance:
Today, the Rose Valley is renowned for its dual identity as a region of rose cultivation and wine production. Bulgaria is the biggest producer and exporter of rose oil, an essential ingredient in the cosmetics industry. The annual Rose Festival held in Kazanlak, a town in the Rose Valley, celebrates the region's rich history and cultural significance, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the beauty and aroma of the rose fields. The Rose Valley continues to be a cherished symbol of Bulgarian heritage and a significant contributor to the country's rose oil and wine industries.
The Rose Valley wine region in Bulgaria is a hidden treasure, offering a captivating mix of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and outstanding wines. Nestled between the Balkan Mountains and the Sredna Gora range, this region boasts ideal climate and soil conditions that produce wines of exceptional quality. Visitors can delve into the area's vibrant traditions, from the annual Rose Festival in Kazanlak to exploring the endless rose fields. The region's dedication to sustainability ensures its natural beauty endures for future generations. Whether you're a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or seeking a peaceful retreat, Rose Valley promises an unforgettable journey through Bulgaria's heartland, where the past and present beautifully intertwine.
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