Tasting notes:

Chamlija’s vineyards are located in the Kirklareli Province. The province name, taken from Bulgarian, means ‘the city of vines’. Cabernet Franc is grown in a number of the vineyards, including the northernmost at 380m altitude, as well as in sites found at 280m and 150m. The expression is exemplary, displaying a nearly opaque purple-black colour, dark berry fruit, tobacco and chocolate, and a leather nuance. Dense and brooding on the palate, the wine is rich and fullbodied, almost meaty, with enough fresh acidity and abundant tannins and good length. This is an intense wine that requires a dish like venison or duck cassoulet to show it at its best. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)