Bulgarian Grapes
Melnik
Shiroka Melnishka Loza is an ancient Bulgarian grape that is grows in the regions of Melnik.
Melnik Flavors
Melnik is fruity, with aromas of ripe berries and black cherries.
 Berries |
 Blackberry |
 Blueberry |
 Cherry |
Flavors from Maturation and Aging:
 Vanilla |
 Chocolate |
 Pepper |
 Leather |
Melnik Profile
Melnik wines are typically fruity and medium-bodied, with firm tannins and moderate acidity:
| BODY: | Medium |
| TANNINS: | Medium |
| FRUIT: | Medium - High |
| ACIDITY: | Medium |
| ALCOHOL: | 14-15% ABV |
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Sugar < 4g/l Serving temperature: 15-16°C (59-61°F) |
About Melnik
Melnik 55 is a relatively young grape variety. It was created as an attempt to improve some of the characteristics of the indigenous Bulgarian grape Shiroka Melnishka Loza. The latter had grown in Bulgara since antiquity, but is was not suited for the local weather conditions. It ripened in late in October. By this time, the weather becomes cool, so the grapes rarely achieve complete ripeness.
Therefore, in 1963, Bulgarian researchers created a cross between Melnik and a French variety, Valdeguié. The new grape was named Melnik 55, or Early Melnik, as it ripens earlier and is more suitable for local conditions.
Today, Melnik is widely grown across Struma valley, in the southwestern part of Bulgaria, and has become very popular both in Bulgaria and abroad.
Melnik Food Pairing
 Ham |
 Salami |
 Tuna |
 Spaghetti |
 Pizza |
 Bacon Burger |
 Taco |
 Wrap |
 Chicken |
 Pork |
 Lamb |
 Veal |
Excellent Pairings
Cured Meat. Smoked Ham. Salami.
Fat Fish. Tuna. BBQ Salmon.
Rich Sausages and Soups.
Tomato Based Dishes.
Pizza. Lasagna. Spaghetti.
Roasted Chicken. Lamb. Pork.
Hot Dog. Wrap. Taco.
Hamburger. Bacon Burger.
The Ideal Glass for Melnik
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The Bordeaux Glass was designed for enjoying fuller-bodied, tannic red wines. They are taller than other red wine glasses, and has a slimmer bowl. The tall size allows the bouquet of the wine to develop, smooth out rough edges, play down tannins, and allow the wine to achieve balance. The slimmer bowl directs the wine to the back of your mouth for a maximum taste. |
