Discovering Eastern Europe's Great Wines!

Having just completed my 2-week sojourn in Eastern Europe, I have had the pleasure of tasting wines from Hungary, Croatia, Bulgaria, Serbia and Romania. Let me tell you that there are so many different wine varietals out there I am not sure I will be able to try them all in my lifetime But, I am going to give my best effort Tough job, but somebody has to do it

Serbia has over 70,000 hectares of vineyards. The majority of Serbian wines are produced in local wineries. Wine has been part of the Serbian culture since the establishment of statehood, especially during the 12th-14th century. I had the pleasure of tasting a few of their wines in Belgrade (a lovely city by the way) 64% of the wine produced is white and 36% is red These nations were once at the heart of the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War and are now producing a dizzying array of great value, top-quality wines that are steadily gaining recognition on the international stage. Many of these countries have a wine-making history dating back thousands of years

Did you know Romania is the 7th largest producer of wine in Europe, I didn't! The grape variety that makes serious reds is the dark skinned Feteasca Neagra-a name that means "black maiden". Its' aromas of violets, dried cherry and tobacco hints precede a soft, juicy palate packed with wild red berries and a velvety finish. This became my "go-to" wine at dinner. It was spectacular and went nicely with every dish

@needfulthings2021

15 Cambridge Street South Lindsay

Croatia has a rich wine history and viticulture tradition that dates back to the 5th century BC! Croatia is home to some unique and exciting grape varieties not found anywhere else in the world I swiftly grew very fond of their white wines Which one you might ask? All of the them! But my favourite is Grasevina Characterized by its' fruity, mineral and floral aromas On the nose fresh apple, citrus and pear notes along with white flowers and grassy flavors. Yes, you really could taste the grassy flavors! Very unique. This wine was delightful.

Hungary has 22 wine regions growing hundreds of varieties A 100 years ago Hungary was one of the most important wine producers in Europe Every royal court in Europe clinked glasses filled with the revered Tokaji wine (sweet white wine). The region of Tokaj is Hungary's most famous wine region and the oldest classified wine region in the world. Who knew??

What wine is produced in Bulgaria? Well surprisingly red dominates with very recognizable wine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir just to name a few Bulgarians have been producing wine since 4000 BC. They are now the second largest exporter of bottled wine (after France).

My trip to Eastern Europe and exploring its individual countries wines was a delight So many new varieties, and the unique terroirs made a 14 day wine excursion amazing. I highly recommend you to try any of these 5 different countries wine when and if the chance arises for you. I am sure you will surprised and delighted by their spectacular offerings.

If you have any questions about these countries and their wines or any other wine related questions, please feel free to contact me at 705 878 2001 (text is best) or find me at my little shoppe Needful Things 15 Cambridge Street S Lindsay

Until the next time, thanks a bunch for reading,