Turkish Grapes
Kalecik Karası
Kalecik Karası is one of Turkey’s most important historic red wines.
Kalecik Karası Flavors
Kalecik Karası wines are known for their bright and fruity aromas, with dominant notes of red fruits like Strawberry, Cherry and Raspberry.
The best examples may also display floral notes of Roses and Violets and a touch of Herbs and Minerals.
 Strawberry |
 Cherry |
 Raspberry |
 Pomegranate |
 Rose |
 Violets |
 Thyme |
 Minerals |
Tertiary Flavors from Aging:
 Oak |
 Vanilla |
 Cloves |
 Cinnamon |
Kalecik Karası Profile
Wines made from Kalecik Karası are typically light bodied, with soft tannins and bright acidity, making them fresh and easy to drink:
| BODY: | Light |
| TANNINS: | Low |
| FRUIT: | Medium - High |
| ACIDITY: | High |
| ALCOHOL: | 12% ABV |
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Serving temperatures: 12-14°C (54-57°F) |
Kalecik Karası Food Pairing
Thanks to a fruity character, high acidity, and low tannins, Kalecik Karası pairs well with a wide spectrum of food:
 Antipasti |
 Pasta |
 Pizza |
 Salmon |
 Cheese |
 Sausages |
 Salami |
 Ham |
 Chicken |
 Duck |
 Turkey |
 Veal |
Excellent Pairings
Salads with Goat Cheese.
Roasted Potatoes. Onion Rings.
Pasta with tomato or herb-based sauces.
Seared Tuna and Salmon.
Chicken Dumplings. Chicken Paté.
Roast Chicken or Duck with Herbs.
Coq au Vin. Citrus roasted Chicken.
Thanksgiving Turkey.
Lighter meat dishes (Veal).
Pork Chops. Pork Sausages.
Turkish mezes (stuffed grape leaves).
Tagines and Cous Cous. Hummus.
Snails with Garlic.
Ham and Parsley.
The Ideal Glass for Kalecik Karası
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Pick a Burgundy Glass for swirling & releasing the wine aromas. The shape of the glass captures and directs the delicate aromas to your nose and leads the wine to the tip of your tongue for a better reception of the tastes. The Burgundy glass was designed for the delicate and aromatic red wine Bourgogne Rouge, made from Pinot Noir grapes in Bougogne (Burgundy). |
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Kalecik Karası
Kalecik Karası (black from Kalecik) is one of Turkey’s most important indigenous red wine grapes, known for producing elegant, aromatic, and fruit-forward wines. It is often compared to Gamay and Pinot Noir due to its light body, vibrant acidity, and silky tannins.
Kalecik Karası is primarily grown in Kalecik, a district near Ankara in Central Anatolia. The grape thrives in the region’s continental climate, with hot days and cool nights, which helps preserve acidity and develop complex flavors.
The grape is also cultivated in:
- Denizli (Aegean region)
- Cappadocia (high-altitude vineyards)
- Thrace & Marmara (cooler regions, producing fresher styles)
Wines made from Kalecik Karası are typically light bodied, with soft tannins and bright acidity, making them fresh and easy to drink.
Some producers age it in oak to add spice and depth, but most prefer to highlight its pure fruit expression.
Young & Fresh Style: Bright red fruit, floral notes, vibrant acidity (best enjoyed within a few years)
Barrel-Aged Style: Adds complexity with notes of vanilla, spice, and mild earthiness
Rosé Wines: Some producers use Kalecik Karası to make elegant and aromatic rosé wines, perfect for summer drinking
Kalecik Karası is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy elegant, fruit-driven red wines, similar to Pinot Noir or Gamay. It is one of Turkey’s most versatile and food-friendly grape varieties, offering a refreshing and aromatic drinking experience.