The Boğazkere Grape

Boğazkere is one of Turkey’s most important and historic indigenous red wine grapes.

The name translates to "throat burner", a reference to its naturally high tannin structure and powerful character.

Boğazkere is primarily grown in southeastern Anatolia, with its heartland in the Diyarbakır region. The region's hot, dry summers and cold winters create an ideal environment for the grape, allowing it to develop intense flavors and structure.

Boğazkere produces wines that are full-bodied, tannic, and deeply structured. The grape has high tannins, moderate acidity, and excellent aging potential, making it ideal for barrel aging and blending.

Young Wines: Intense fruit, strong tannins, and lively acidity.

Aged Wines: Integrated tannins, complex spices, and earthy characteristics (can develop for 5-10+ years in oak and bottle).

Blends: Because of its bold tannic structure, Boğazkere is often blended with Öküzgözü, a softer, more fruit-forward grape. This combination balances the wine, making it more approachable while maintaining depth and complexity.

Boğazkere is a wine for those who enjoy bold, structured red wines similar to Cabernet Sauvignon or Tannat. While it can be intense when young, it rewards aging, developing into a refined, complex wine. It is a cornerstone of Turkish winemaking and represents the rich history and tradition of Anatolian viticulture.