Soft blackberry, cinnamon and pepper aromas lead flavors of juicy berry and savory spice in this Merlot from Bulgaria. Good tannins and structure give the wine ageability, which will also temper its oaky character. Overall, an impressive effort from an emerging region.
— S.K.
(5/1/2009)
Harmonious on the nose and palate with ripe black plums and cassis enveloped by a layer of char and smoke. Medium to full bodied with structured acidity, it’s a straightforward but sound Merlot with powdery, soft tannins and a tasty black cherry and graham cracker finish.
— A.I.
(9/1/2011)
Nicely concentrated with a core of ripe red fruit and menthol, this is a fresh, forward Cab that’s a bargain at $8. Bright and clean from start to finish, the finish lingers on smooth, velvety tannins and a fresh, herbaceous mint note.
— A.I.
(9/1/2011)
Aromatic, with notes of orange blossom and lemon zest, this dry, bracing Chardonnay boasts surprising depth and minerality. Vibrant with lemony acidity, it finishes briskly, with a hint of lime-zest-like astringency.
— A.I.
(4/1/2013)
Packed with bright red cherries, strawberries and a spray of violet perfume, this medium-bodied Bulgarian Pinot is straightforward yet surprisingly well structured with zesty acidity and soft, integrated tannins. A fresh, tasty pick that’s a steal at $9.
— A.I.
(9/1/2011)
Although this may not come across like a Merlot, it still offers great value. Plenty of vanilla mixes with deep berry and spice aromas, while the dark, extracted mouth offers a lush feel with good tannin matched with black berry and white pepper.
— M.D.
(6/1/2006)
Ripe red-cherry and sweet pastry notes are fragrant on this bright, easy-drinking Pinot Noir. On the finish, hints of smoke and ash add savory tones that would be pleasant alongside duck- or pork-based dishes.
— A.I.
(4/1/2013)
Herbaceous notes of dill and green wood converge with ripe, sweet plum and spice aromas on this medium-bodied, bargain Bulgarian Cabernet Sauvignon. Although initially soft with notes of sweet blackberry, it gains earthiness in the midpalate. Firm tannins offer structure, but the vanilla finish drops a bit abruptly.
— A.I.
(12/1/2010)