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Article: Your Guide to Balkan Wines - This Month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club

Your Guide to Balkan Wines - This Month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club

Your Guide to Balkan Wines - This Month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club

Welcome to this month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club, the UK's most exciting wine subscription for the curious drinker. Each month, we will introduce you to a new wine region as part of our promise to deliver no two wines the same for a whole year. Not a member yet? Subscribe here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

 

Step into the heart of the Balkans, a region steeped in history, culture, and extraordinary winemaking traditions. This month, we’ve handpicked a selection of wines that celebrate the bold flavours, unique grape varieties, and passionate craftsmanship that make Balkan wines truly unforgettable.

From the sun-drenched vineyards of Macedonia and the ancient cellars of Romania to the mountain slopes of Bulgaria, this case invites you to explore the incredible diversity of Balkan terroirs. Each bottle tells a story, brimming with character and the region’s unmistakable charm.

With a focus on the latest addition to the Novel portfolio, Aya Estate, this case is perfect for adventurous wine lovers, it’s a toast to a region that continues to surprise and inspire.

Raise your glass, and let the Balkans take you on an unforgettable voyage of discovery. Cheers!

From the sunlit vineyards of Aya Estate Winery, nestled in the beautiful Struma Valley, is this sensational southern Rhone blend is a captivating expression of modern Bulgarian winemaking. This carefully crafted mix of Marsanne, Rousanne, and Viognier to create a wine that is as vibrant and dynamic as the region itself.

On the nose it is brimming with aromas of ripe citrus, white flowers, and a hint of stone fruit, evoking the local beauty of the terroir. The palate is equally alluring, offering a harmonious balance of zesty lemon, juicy peach, and a touch of minerality, all rounded out by a soft, elegant finish.

Perfect for pairing with fresh seafood, light pastas, or simply enjoyed as an aperitif, this versatile white wine is ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Aya Estate are possible the most exciting winery in Bulgaria and this is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation, delivering a delightful taste of Bulgaria’s thriving wine scene.

From the rolling vineyards of Western Romania, the Balla Géza Királyleányka offers an elegant tribute to one of the country’s most cherished indigenous grapes. Translating to “Little Princess,” Királyleányka captures the charm and grace of Romania’s winemaking heritage while showcasing the expertise of winemaker Dr Geza Balla, a pioneer in the region.

This delightful white wine greets you with aromas of white blossoms, pear, and a hint of citrus zest, a delightfully aromatic bouquet. On the palate, it reveals a crisp, clean profile with flavours of green apple, stone fruit, and a subtle touch of minerality. The light body and refreshing acidity make it an incredibly versatile and approachable wine.

Perfect as a pairing for salads, grilled fish, or even spicy dishes, this wine really shines as a companion to both light fare and moments of relaxation. It’s a beautiful introduction to the unique character of Romanian white wines.

Hailing from the scenic vineyards of Minis, Romania, Balla Géza’s Magyarádi Fehér is a one-of-a-kind white blend that beautifully reflects the local terroir and the craftsmanship of Dr Geza Balla. Named after the Magyarádi vineyard, this wine is 100% Mustoasa de Maderat, an old local variety which survived Phylloxera.

On the nose, it reveals a charming bouquet of honeysuckle, citrus peel, and a hint of fresh ginger, setting the stage for a complex and layered palate. Fresh flavours of green apple, apricot, and other stone fruits, all balanced by vibrant acidity and gentle touch of quince on the finish.

A great wine to pair with light pastas, seafood dishes, and stir frys, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Our second wine from Aya Estate is another nod to modern Bulgarian winemaking, with a Rose perfectly crafted with a balance of fresh fruits, red flowers, and a dry, crisp finish. From their sustainable, biodynamic, and organic vineyards in the Struma Valley, this blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah makes a Rose good enough to put Bulgarian winemaking even more firmly on the map.

On the nose, it enchants with aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries, and a delicate hint of rose petals, offering a fragrant and inviting bouquet. The palate is equally captivating, with juicy red fruit flavours, crisp acidity, and a subtle minerality, all leading to a light, dry finish.

Perfect for sunny afternoons, light salads, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the Ayano Rosé is as versatile as it is delightful. Whether you’re enjoying it as an aperitif or pairing it with food, this wine is sure to bring a splash of joy to any occasion.

At Aya Estate Winery, innovation meets tradition to create wines that capture the essence of Bulgaria’s rich winemaking heritage. The Colorito Pinot Noir is a stunning example of their commitment to excellence, offering a refined and expressive take on this beloved grape variety. From their cooler sites on the Black Sea Coast, where the climate is much more suited for the delicate Pinot Noir grape.

On the nose, this Pinot Noir greets you with aromas of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of earthy spice, showcasing its vibrant and complex character. The palate follows with a silky texture, juicy berry flavours, and whispers of vanilla and soft oak, all balanced by a lively acidity and a smooth, elegant finish.

Perfect for pairing with roast poultry, mushroom dishes, or herb-crusted lamb, the Colorito Pinot Noir is versatile and sophisticated, ideal for everything from intimate dinners to festive gatherings. This wine is a must-try for Pinot Noir enthusiasts.

And to finish we head to the sunny centre of North Macedonia for a really interesting Plavac Mali crafted by Ezimit Winery, a winery known for its dedication to showcasing the richness of Balkan terroirs. This Plavac Mali is a robust and characterful red wine. Plavac Mali, who you may be more familiar with from Croatia, is revered for its deep flavours, sweeter spices, and generous length.

On the nose, this wine reveals a compelling bouquet of dark cherries, blackberries, and hints of dried herbs, accompanied by a touch of cacao. The palate is bold and structured, offering flavours of ripe plums, figs, and a subtle smoky undertone, all framed by firm tannins and a lingering finish.

Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, aged cheeses, or hearty stews, this is a wine that invites you to savour the depth and complexity of Balkan winemaking. A true delight for those seeking bold, authentic flavours.