Only a sip away – the wine routes of Bulgaria's Northwest

published on 7/19/25 1:35 PM

Photo: winetours.bg

If you think that Northeast Bulgaria is only fertile granaries and plains, it’s time to take a look at the vineyards that stretch across thousands of acres in the region. Here, wine is part of people’s everyday life and culture. The data is impressive – in just five years, the number of local wineries included in the region’s specialized Wine Tourism Map has grown from 9 to 20.

Northeastern Bulgaria is divided into two main wine-growing regions: the Northern Black Sea region – around the cities of Varna and Shumen, and the Central Danube Plain region – in the region of Veliko Tarnovo, Targovishte and Ruse. The climate and terrain have a decisive influence on the character of the wine. Close to the sea, in sandy soils like those near the natural landmark Pobitite Kamani – a former seabed – the wines often carry a slight salty note.

The white and aromatic varieties here produce elegant, fresh wines. And inland – along the Danube and around Veliko Tarnovo – the soils are ideal for both local and classic varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, we learn from Anelia Hristova, a certified guide and wine expert in an interview for Radio Bulgaria:

"There is an extremely wide variety. First, from winemakers who make very high-quality and interesting wines from international and Bulgarian varieties that represent the specifics of the terroir in this region. In addition, there is the opportunity to combine with various historical, cultural and natural landmarks, which makes the experience complete and quite interesting for tourists. Not to mention the local culinary specialties – they combine well with the wines, i.e. you can try local wine with local cuisine," says Anelia Hristova.

Not only the beautiful landscapes and hospitable cellars stand out in the foreground, but also the local varieties themselves with their own appearance and taste. Small and medium-sized winemakers make serious efforts to develop them and proudly present them to their guests.

"Characteristic local varieties are Dimyat, Red Misket, Gergana, which is a unique variety and grows very well only in the land of Tsarev Brod near Shumen. We also have Rubin, Pamid, Evmolpia - from the red varieties, and aromatic varieties such as Varna or Vratsa Misket and Tamyanka, which develop very well along the Black Sea coast. In addition, there are almost extinct varieties that some of the wineries are trying to revive in order to preserve the identity of Bulgarian varieties. Such as Gergana, which was in very small plantations, but now the plantations are expanding with it. Or Kokorko - an old white grape variety. In the Veliko Tarnovo region, work is being done to restore it."

Key tourist centers such as Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Shumen and Ruse are natural magnets for lovers of this type of experience. In addition to tastings, many wineries in the area now offer accommodation in stylish inns or guesthouses, as well as additional attractions – horseback riding, spa treatments, eco-trails for walks through the vineyards or to nearby landmarks.

"The interest is extremely high, with very great potential. The wineries also have a desire and interest to present what they do", explains Anelia Hristova.

"We have more and more tastings, more and more wine routes and people who know how to present wine in an attractive way. The important thing is that the wineries in the region work together and partner well. In addition to the common wine list, we also organize events such as Open Days at the end of May and other festivals. In the fall, Urban Wine Fest is held in the cities of Varna, Ruse and Veliko Tarnovo, which is tied to the International Mavrud Day - a celebration not only of this variety, but also of Bulgarian wine and all our varieties. So, if you love wine, there is always something to try and experience here," concluded Anelia Hristova.

English publication: R. Petkova
Photos: winetours.bg, Facebook/Anelia Hristova, tsarevbrod.com

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Only a sip away – the wine routes of Bulgaria's Northwest

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