Turkish Grapes
Sultaniye / Sultana
(Thomson Seedless)
The Sultaniye Grape
Sultaniye grapes are consumed as table grapes and raisins, but also used in winemaking.
Sultaniye wines are dry and semi-dry, light-bodied wines. Grapes used for winemaking are mainly grown at Denizli and Manisa in the Aegean Region.
The Semillon and Sultaniye wines from the Marmara Region of Turkey attract attention not only in the local market but also in international markets.
Sultaniye is one of Turkey’s most widely grown white wine grapes, known for its fresh, fruity, and easy-drinking wines. It is primarily used for table grapes and raisins, but it also produces light, crisp white wines that are perfect for warm-weather drinking.
Sultaniye is mainly cultivated in western Turkey, particularly in the Denizli and Manisa regions of the Aegean. The region’s Mediterranean climate (hot, dry summers and mild winters) helps develop the grape’s natural sweetness and fruity aromas.
Wines made from Sultaniye are typically light-bodied, with bright acidity and fresh fruit flavors. They are often made in a dry or off-dry style and rarely aged in oak to preserve their pure, fruity character.
Sultaniye wines are known for being refreshing, easy to drink, and best enjoyed young.
Young & Fresh Style: Crisp acidity, citrus and floral notes (best consumed within 1–2 years).
Off-Dry Style: Slightly sweet with tropical fruit flavors (similar to a light Riesling or Moscato).
Blended Wines: Sometimes blended with Narince or Chardonnay for more complexity.
Sultaniye is a refreshing and easygoing white grape, producing wines that are light, fruity, and perfect for summer drinking. If you enjoy Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Albariño, you will likely appreciate Sultaniye wines.
Sultana Flavors
 Lemon |
 Apple |
 Pear |
 Grapefruit |
 Jasmine |
 Grass |
 Asparagus |
 Wet Stone |
Off-Dry Versions:
 Melon |
 Pineapple |
 Mango |
 Honey |
Sultana Profile
Wines made from Sultaniye are typically light-bodied, with bright acidity and fresh fruit flavors:
| SUGAR: | Dry (3 g/l) |
| BODY: | Light |
| FRUIT: | Medium - High |
| ACIDITY: | Medium - High |
| ALCOHOL: | 13% ABV |
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Serving temperature: 8-10°C (46-50°F) |
Sultana Food Pairing
Sultaniye’s light body and crisp acidity make it a perfect match for light and fresh dishes:
 Aperitif |
 Salads |
 Vegetables |
 Pasta |
 Fish |
 Chicken |
 Turkey |
 Pork |
Excellent Pairings
Aperitif.
Salads. Vegetable Dishes.
Greek Salad. Citrus-dressed Greens.
Light Pasta Dishes.
Lemony Seafood Pasta. Pesto.
Seafood. Grilled Fish. Fish Soup.
Shellfish. Shrimps. Calamari.
Grilled Scallops.
Egg Dishes. Omlet.
White Meat. Turkey.
Turkish Specialities
Turkish mezes. Hummus.
Cacık (Yogurt). Tzatziki.
Stuffed grape leaves.
The Ideal Glass for Sultana
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A Tulip Shaped Glass with a slightly smaller bowl can be suitable for various dry white wine styles. It guides the wine to the center of your mouth, avoiding the sides where acidity is less pleasant. A smaller bowl also helps to serve smaller quantities, and keep the wine cold. It also helps if you hold the glass by the stem! |
Sultana Cheese Pairing
Opt for cheeses with moderate saltiness and creaminess to balance the wine's acidity. You can also add accompaniments like fresh fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts (almonds, walnuts), or a light drizzle of honey to enhance the pairing.
Fresh and Mild Cheeses
Mozzarella: Its delicate flavor pairs well with the wine's lightness.
Ricotta: Especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.
Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tanginess complements the subtle fruit notes in Sultana.
Semi-Soft Cheeses
Fontina: Its nutty, buttery qualities make a good match.
Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Sultana.
Camembert: Similar to Brie but with slightly more earthiness.
Hard Cheeses
Asiago: Lightly aged Asiago adds a complementary tang to the wine.
Manchego: A classic Spanish pairing, especially younger Manchego, which is less intense.
Gruyère: Mildly nutty and sweet, enhancing the wine's subtlety.
Blue Cheeses (for contrast)
Robiola: Its mild creaminess contrasts nicely without overpowering the wine.