Crimean wines (146). The best Crimean wines

Crimea is a wine region known for its wines far beyond the borders of our country. Such wineries as Massandra, Magarach, Inkerman Vintage Wine Factory and others have won first places at various exhibitions and competitions many times, leaving behind wine producers from France and Italy. We will describe some of the best, in our opinion, semi-sweet Crimean wines.

Brands of Crimean semi-sweet wines:

White Muscat (Feodosia).

This drink is made from several varieties of Muscat grapes. The main vineyards are located in the Crimea, as well as in some regions of Ukraine. The wine has a great taste with a well-tangible aroma of nutmeg. The drink is perfect for serving with fish dishes, it goes well with poultry meat (chicken, turkey, etc.) Muscat strength 9-12 revolutions, the amount of sugar is from 3 to 4 percent of the total volume.

Red semi-sweet.

This type of semi-sweet wine is made from several varieties of grapes: first of all, these are Bastardo, Cabernet, Separavy - all these grapes are grown on the Crimean peninsula and the southern regions of Ukraine. Red semi-sweet differs from the rest with a mild tart taste, a harmonious well-balanced bouquet. The drink goes well with various pates, meat dishes, hard cheeses, it contains up to 5% sugar, and the strength of the drink reaches 12 revolutions.

Tamyanka.

Tamianka is a white wine with a mild taste, it is made from grape varieties popular in Europe, but they successfully develop and produce crops in Crimean conditions. The aromas of fragrant meadow herbs predominate in the drink, shades of nutmeg are clearly visible. The wine gained popularity among the population due to its light refreshing taste and rich aroma. Tamyanka is used as an addition to fresh fruits and sweets. After a short maturation, the drink acquires 9-12% strength, the mass fraction of sugar can reach 5%.

Monk Whisper.

Red semi-sweet wine with pomegranate tint, semi-sweet. The drink is made from grape varieties famous in Europe, but they are grown in the Crimea. It is known that several hundred years ago a significant number of wineries were concentrated in the hands of Orthodox monks, apparently from this the name of the wine came. In Monk's Whisper tones of spices predominate, aromas of fragrant herbs and ripe cherries are noticeable, and a light velvety taste is felt. The bouquet of the drink goes well with lamb, veal and duck. The strength of the drink is up to 11 revolutions, the amount of sugar is up to 5% of the total mass.

Pinot Noir Crimean.

This semi-sweet Crimean wine is made from the world-famous Pinot Noir grape variety. The ripened drink has a well-defined ruby ​​color, it has a harmonious taste with aromas of cherries and ripe fruits. The fortress of the Crimean Pinot Noir is 9-12 turns, the volume of sugar in the drink is up to 5%.

Discovering Crimea for the first time, one cannot ignore its famous vineyards and Crimean wine. Let's talk about the history of winemaking on this Black Sea peninsula and describe red, dry and semi-sweet wines of famous brands.

1 Crimean wine - from ancient times to modern production

The history of viticulture and winemaking on the Crimean peninsula goes back to the 4th-6th century BC. The vine was brought here by the ancient Greeks, who taught the local Taurus how to grow a sunny berry and make wine from it. This alcoholic drink was very popular on the Black Sea coast, and city-states produced grape liquor in such quantity that it was more than enough for the inhabitants of the Bosporus kingdom to consume it and for export to other regions of the ancient world.

The technology for converting grapes into alcohol in those days looked like this:

1. The grapes were crushed in three stages - first on a stone platform with their feet, then with a light press, then with a heavy one.
2. The resulting wort flowed into large rectangular containers, where the juice matured and alcoholized.
3. Further, alcohol was poured into pithoi - clay vessels that were stored buried in the ground.
4. Sometimes the wine was thickened by boiling it down.

The most expensive drink was considered the first pressing. Alcohol from under a heavy press was valued least of all.

With the departure of the Greeks and Romans from the peninsula, winemaking, like viticulture, began to decline. And only many centuries later, after the annexation of Crimea to Russia, the industry began to rapidly revive. A lot of efforts were made by Prince L. Golitsyn, who, in fact, re-created the industrial production of grape wines. In Soviet times, it was possible to maintain the quality and popularity of local alcohol. The production volumes of the product increased every year. Dry, red, white, semi-sweet wine, table and fortified drinks, cognac were produced. To date, the wine of the peninsula has become a real hallmark of the Crimea. It is successfully exported to Europe and America.

Table brands are considered to be the most natural wines. They are made exclusively from grape juice without the addition of alcohol and other ingredients. Table wine cannot be aged for more than 2 years and more than 12% ABV. Such alcohol is washed down with dishes served to the table. They do not drink it separately, and even more so they do not have a snack. This light spirit comes in red, white and pink.

All sorts of table wines are produced in Crimea. Widely known dry white wine Rkatsiteli, Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Aligote. These brands are perfect for meat dishes, especially fried and cooked on the fire or on the grill. For example, we advise you to try baking. Dry red Cabernet, Alushta and Saperavi are served with seafood, vegetable dishes, white meat. A dry pink Alkadar or Heraclea is combined with almost any dish. The most useful is red wine, which can be drunk daily, not exceeding a dose of 0.4 liters per day. This drink serves as a good prevention of many diseases.

A sophisticated buyer can be offered dry red wine "Alushta", made at the "Massandra" association in the "Alushta" state farm. It has a dark red color and complex saffiano tones with aromas of mignonette and flowering grapes. The drink is not only pleasant to the taste, but also able to have a beneficial effect on the human digestive system. Magnificent dry is also produced by OJSC Solnechnaya Dolina, located in the area of ​​the resort town of Sudak. We advise you to try the brand "Sauvignon" with a mild taste and a little sourness. Dry is combined with fish, cheeses, cold appetizers.

3 Fortified drinks Massandra

Near Yalta, in the town of Massandra, unique grape wines are made from local grape varieties grown on 4,000 hectares of plantations. Dry, and is also the pride of local winemakers. In contrast to table alcohol, in the manufacture of fortified alcohol, alcohol is used, which is added to the drink to stop fermentation. Fortified wines include:

• port wine,
• madera,
• sherry,
• Cahors,
• muscat,
• tokay.

Port wine "Krymsky" is one of the best drinks of the Black Sea coast. This popular red has a ruby ​​color and a complex fruity bouquet. The taste is soft, harmonious. Alcohol content - 17.5%, sugar - 10%. This port wine is pleasant to drink. It is also known for its medicinal properties. The drink has a bactericidal effect, improves immunity, improves digestion.

Gorgeous in taste and bouquet Madeira "Massandra".

discomfort when going up and down stairs;

unpleasant crunch, clicking not of their own free will;

pain during or after exercise;

inflammation in the joints and swelling;

causeless and sometimes unbearable aching pain in the joints ...

Now answer the question: does it suit you? Can such pain be endured? And how much money have you already "leaked" for ineffective treatment? That's right - it's time to end this! Do you agree? That is why we decided to publish an exclusive interview with Professor Dikul, in which he revealed the secrets of getting rid of joint pain, arthritis and arthrosis.

On these cool autumn days, I happened to visit the Crimea, the most popular resort in Ukraine. In a cozy valley between the mountains stretched Alushta in which I spent 4 happy days.
I was met by the wonderful hotel "Porto Mare" www.hotel-portomare.com, in Soviet times the boarding house "Yunost", located on the left bank of the Dzhemerdzhi River.
And this trip would not have been special if it were not for the acquaintance with a charming girl, a walk along the moonlit embankment again filled my soul with colors and gave me restlessness. And the wonderful wine "Magarach semi-sweet red" finally strengthened me in the idea that the Crimea is a very romantic place. By the way, the Magarach Institute of Vine and Wine is a research and production enterprise with almost two hundred years of history. Behind its walls, wines are produced that have repeatedly received the highest awards at international exhibitions.

1. "Magarach", Yalta

It specializes in the production of vintage strong and dessert wines. Such wines of this enterprise as white muscat "Magarach", bastardo "Magarachsky", magnificent sherries and ports have been awarded the highest awards more than once. But even the ordinary wine of this enterprise "Magarach semi-sweet red" and "Magarach semi-sweet white" tastes of high quality.

2. "Massandra", Yalta, Massandra

Perhaps, in terms of numbers, this plant could be safely put in the first place, and the wine is of quite good quality, if I didn’t like Magarach wines so much.
It specializes in the production of vintage and ordinary strong and dessert wines. The wines of this leading Crimean enterprise have gained well-deserved fame among specialists and consumers, have been awarded the highest awards more than once, especially White Muscat of the Red Stone; South Coast Tokay; Muscat white and pink south coast; Port white and red south coast; Pinot Gris "Ai-Danil"; Madeira "Massandra" and many other fine wines. At the Sotheby's auction, the Livadia white port was sold for $17,000.

3. Inkerman factory of vintage wines, Sevastopol, Inkerman

It specializes in the production of vintage table, strong and dessert wines. Table wines such as Krymsky Sauvignon, Krymskoye Aligote, Krymskoye Cabernet, dessert wines Secret of Khersones, strong red and white Krymsky port wines have been repeatedly awarded at international competitions.

4. Factory of sparkling wines. Sudak, New World

It specializes in the production of classic Novy Svet champagne (the only one in Ukraine, although there are rumors that the SHABO plant is starting to produce champagne using classical technology), the owner of a whole bunch of awards from prestigious international competitions.

6. Bakhchisaray winery "Fountain", Bakhchisarai

It specializes in the production of ordinary table, strong, dessert and sparkling wines. The high-quality and varied wines of this enterprise are well-deservedly popular with consumers, especially the sparkling Bakhchisarai Fountain.

5. State farm-factory "Livadia", Yalta, Livadia

It specializes in the production of vintage and ordinary strong and dessert wines. Such wines of this enterprise as Muscat white Red Stone, Cahors "Yuzhnoberezhny", red port wine "Livadia", Muscat pink Yuzhnoberezhny are rightfully considered one of the best in the Crimea.

7. State farm-factory "Koktebel", Feodosia, Shebetovka

Located in the village of Koktebel near Kara-Dag. It produces very good wines, some of the best are Pinot Gris Kara-Dag and Old Nectar. Good cognacs are also made there. Cognac "Koktebel" from the Koktebel factory used to be one of my favorite cognacs after Gremy and Remy Martin.

8. State farm-factory "Solnechnaya Dolina". Sudak, Sun Valley

It specializes in the production of vintage strong and dessert wines. Such wines as "Black Doctor", "Black Colonel", "Sunny Valley", "Golden Fortune Archaderesse" and others do not need recommendations, their high quality has been noted at many competitions.

9. Agrofirm "Zolotaya Balka", Sevastopol, Zolotaya Balka

It specializes in the production of strong, sparkling and table wines. The high-quality wines of this enterprise, especially the sparkling Zolotaya Balka, are in high demand among consumers.

10. Dionysus, Simferopol

It specializes in the production of vintage and ordinary strong dessert wines. The sherries of this enterprise are magnificent - "Crimean" and dry, awarded with awards at international competitions, and Cahors, port wines are very popular with consumers.

Source: www.yaltatour.ru

Aligote "Golden Beam"
It is prepared from the Aligote grape variety grown in the region of Balaklava. Moderately warm semi-humid climate, proximity to the sea make this area one of the best for the production of vintage table wines.
The color of the wine is light golden. In the bouquet and taste, a subtle varietal shade, a slight spicy bitterness and a light caramel tone are noticeable. The taste is delicate, full, harmonious, with a pleasant freshness.
The exposure period is 1.5 years.

Aligote "Crimean"
It is prepared from the Aligote grape variety grown in the Sevastopol zone, as well as in the steppe and foothill regions of Crimea.
The color of the wine is from light straw to straw. The bouquet is delicate, delicate, with floral tones. Spicy bitterness with pleasant freshness on the palate.
The holding period is 2 years.

Riesling "Crimean"
It is prepared from the Rhine Riesling grape variety in the Sevastopol zone, as well as in the steppe and foothill regions of the Crimea.
The wine has a straw-greenish color. The bouquet is pronounced varietal, resinous. The taste is light, harmonious, fresh, but at the same time rather active and moderately full.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 10 - 12 vol.%, acidity 6 - 8 g / l.

Kokur "Nizhnegorsky"
It is prepared from the Kokur grape variety grown in the steppe Nizhnegorsk region.
The wine has an attractive color from light straw to golden and even dark golden hue. The bouquet is varietal, original, somewhat spicy, sometimes with a floral or honey tone. The taste is harmonious, with pleasant acidity, quite full.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 10 - 11 vol.%, acidity 6 - 7 g / l.

Sylvaner "Feodosia"
It is prepared from the Silvaner grape variety grown on the slopes of the hills in the Feodosiya region.
The color of the wine is light golden. Bouquet characteristic of the variety. The taste is quite full with pleasant freshness.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 10 - 12 vol.%, acidity 6 - 8 g / l.

Rkatsiteli "Inkermanskoye"
It is prepared from the Rkatsiteli grape variety grown in the Sevastopol zone.
The wine has a light golden color, is distinguished by freshness and a bouquet characteristic of the Rkatsiteli variety.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 10 - 13 vol.%, acidity 6 - 8 g / l.

Rkatsiteli "Vilino" (type of Kakheti)
It is prepared from the Rkatsiteli grape variety grown in the Bakhchisaray region.
The color of the wine is golden to amber. Floral bouquet with fruity tones. The taste is full, extractive, harmonious.
The exposure period is 1.5 years.
Fortress wine 10 - 12 vol.%, acidity 5 - 7 g / l.

Table red "Ruby Magarach"
Made from Ruby Magaracha grapes with the addition of up to 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and Saperavi grapes. Grapes for wine are grown in the Piedmont Experimental Farm of the Magarach Institute of Viticulture and Winemaking in the Crimea.
The color of the wine is ruby ​​to dark ruby.
The holding period is 3 years. Produced since 1968.
The strength of the wine is 12 vol.%, the sugar content is not more than 0.3%.

Muscat white "South coast"
For the preparation of this wine is the Muscat white grape variety grown on the southern coast of Crimea.
The wine is light amber in color with a golden hue. The bouquet has a characteristic muscat tone. The taste is fresh, harmonious, with sufficient fullness.
The holding period is 2 years.

Muscat white dessert [ ! ]
It is prepared from Muscat white grapes grown on the southern coast of Crimea.
The color of the wine changes from light to dark golden. The bouquet has a developed nutmeg aroma and floral-resinous tones. The taste is delicate, full, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.

Muscat white "Castel" [ ! ] [ to ]
The unique liqueur wine was made from the Muscat white grape variety grown on the mountain terraces around Mount Castel.
The finished wine resembles amber in color. The bouquet has a developed muscat aroma with a powerful bouquet of resinous tones. The taste is delicate, full, oily, harmonious. Wine delights with its quality and originality.
The holding period is 2 years.

Muscat white "Livadia" [ ! ]
The unique liqueur wine is made from Muscat white grapes grown on the southern coast of Crimea at the Livadia state farm.
The finished wine resembles amber in color. The bouquet has subtle honey tones of alpine meadows. Oily taste and amazing harmony of wine bring a special pleasure.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress of wine 13 vol.%, sugar 27%.

Muscat White Red Stone [ ! ]
The pride of domestic winemaking is prepared from the Muscat white grape variety grown at the Gurzuf state farm; the label is decorated with the world's highest awards.
The color of the wine is light amber-gold. The bouquet has a pronounced nutmeg aroma with very noticeable citron tones. The original bouquet and special tenderness of taste make this wine unique.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 13 vol.%, sugar 23%.

White Muscat "Magarach" [ ! ]
It is prepared from Muscat white grapes grown on the southern coast of Crimea at the Magarach Institute.
The color of the wine is light amber with a golden hue. The wine is characterized by a strong and at the same time subtle Muscat aroma with citron tones. On the palate - a pronounced liqueur character, thick, extractive, oily.
Fortress wine 13 - 14 vol.%, sugar 25% and above.

Muscat white "Koktebel"
Prepared from the white Muscat grape variety grown in the eastern part of the Crimea at the Koktebel state farm.
Nice golden color of the wine. The bouquet has a pronounced varietal aroma. The taste is full, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.

Muscat pink "Massandra"
It is prepared from the Muscat pink grape variety grown on the state farms of the Massandra association.
Wine from light to dark pink color. A varietal bouquet with a delicate aroma of rose petals and spicy honey hues. The taste is harmonious, fresh and pleasant.
The holding period is 2 years.

Muscat pink "South coast"
It is prepared from the Muscat pink grape variety grown on the southern coast of Crimea.
The color of the wine is garnet-pink. The bouquet is clearly felt nutmeg aroma with tones of roses. The graceful structure of the bouquet gives this wine a special nobility. The taste is full, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.

Muscat pink dessert [ ! ]
Prepared from Muscat pink grape variety on the southern coast of Crimea.
The color of the wine is amber-pink. Muscat bouquet with the aroma of Kazanlak rose. The taste of wine is harmonious, full, extractive.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 13 vol.%, sugar 23%.

Muscat pink "Magarach" [ ! ]
Prepared from Muscat pink grape variety on the southern coast of Crimea at the Magarach Institute.
The color of the wine is from dark ruby ​​to amber-pink. A feature of the fragrance is the presence of Kazanlak or Gallic rose tones. Taste of liqueur character, full, oily, velvety.
The exposure period is from 3 to 5 years.

Muscat black "Massandra" [ ! ] [ to ]
A unique liqueur wine was made from the Muscat black (Kalyabsky) grape variety on the southern coast of Crimea at the Tavrida state farm.
The wine is dark ruby ​​in color with soft tints, like a precious crystal. The bouquet is complex, with piquant tones of nutmeg, prunes and a delicate scent of chamomile. The taste is bright and delicate, with a slight chocolate tint.
The holding period is 2 years.

Pinot Gris "South Coast"
It is prepared from the Pinot Gris grape variety grown on the state farms of the Massandra association.
The color of the wine is golden, dark apricot shade is allowed. Bouquet varietal, with tones of exposure. The taste is full, harmonious, oily, with tones of rye crust.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 20%.

Pinot Gris "Karadag"
It is prepared from the Pinot Gris grape variety grown in the eastern part of the Crimea at the Koktebel state farm.
The color of the wine is dark amber. The bouquet has a light aroma of rye crust. The taste is quite full, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.

Pinot Gris "Ai-Danil" [ ! ]
The unique dessert wine is made from the Pinot Gris grape variety grown in the Ai-Danil microdistrict of the Gurzuf state farm.
The marvelous color of the wine is dark amber with a pinkish-golden sheen. A peculiar bouquet with the aroma of a crust of freshly baked rye loaf and a subtle hint of fragrant quince. On the palate, a complete harmony of fullness and oiliness.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 13 vol.%, sugar 24%.

Pinot Gris "Magarach" [ ! ]
It is prepared from the Pinot Gris grape variety grown on the southern coast of Crimea at the Magarach Institute.
A distinctive feature in the color of the wine are dark golden, sparkling tones with a pink tint. The bouquet of wine is pleasant, strong, dessert character, with tones of freshly baked rye loaf crust. The taste is delicate, despite the high extractivity and sugar content.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress of wine 13 - 14 vol.%, sugar 20%.

Tokay "Ai-Danil" [ ! ] [ to ]
The unique dessert liqueur wine was made from the Gars Levelu and Furmint grape varieties grown on the southern coast of Crimea at the Gurzuf state farm.
The color of the wine is golden to dark amber. The bouquet is delicate, specific, stunning with complexity and refinement, a combination of tones of quince jam with a subtle smell of freshly baked bread crust, the finest tones of fragrant herbs. The taste of wine is distinguished by harmony, special oiliness, with a pleasant aftertaste.
The holding period is 4 years.
Fortress wine 13 vol.%, sugar 22-24%.
[ Aged for 3 years. The color of the wine is dark ruby. The bouquet clearly expressed chocolate tones, prunes. The taste is full, with great oiliness and liqueur tone.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 20%.

Bastardo "Magarach" [ ! ]
Prepared from the Bastardo Magarachsky grape variety on the southern coast of Crimea at the Magarach Institute.
The wine has a dark ruby ​​or dark garnet color with a lively sparkle that appears after aging. The bouquet is complex, with tones of milk cream, chocolate, prunes. The taste is full, soft, velvety.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 13 - 14 vol.%, sugar 20% and above.

Aleatico "Ayu-Dag" [ ! ]
The wine is made from the Aleatico grape variety grown on the slopes of Mount Ayudag at the Gurzuf state farm.
The color of the wine is garnet-pink. Subtle, delicate, dessert aroma of the variety. The taste is full, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.

Kokur dessert "Surozh" [ ! ]
The valleys of Sudak are favorable for the growth of the local grape variety Kokur, from which wine is made at the Sudak state farm.
The color of the wine is golden to golden. Wine with a pleasant varietal bouquet, reminiscent of quince-honey tones. The taste is full and harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 16%.

Seventh Heaven Golitsyn
The wine has been prepared in Massandra since 1880 from the Kokur grape variety with the addition of white and pink Muscat.
The color of the wine is dark amber. The golden bouquet is bright, with honey, quince and peach tones. The taste is soft, harmonious, oily.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 18%.

"Old Nectar"
The wine is made from the Rkatsiteli grape variety grown in the steppe and foothills of the Crimea.
The color of the wine is dark gold. The bouquet has pronounced honey tones. The taste is full, harmonious.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 16%.

"Carnelian of Taurida"
The wine is made from the Rkatsiteli grape variety grown in the Bakhchisarai region in the vineyards of Vilino village of the Magarach institute.
The color of the wine is from light golden to golden. The bouquet clearly expressed floral-honey tones. The taste is harmonious, typical for a white dessert wine.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 16%.

Pedro "Crimean"
It is prepared from the Pedro Krymsky grape variety, grown in the steppe and foothill farms of the Crimea.
The color of the wine is golden to dark golden. The bouquet is complex, with a subtle honey tone. The taste is soft, full, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 16%.

"Mascot"
The wine is made from the Traminer grape variety grown in the Sevastopol zone and in the vineyards of the Koktebel state farm.
The color of the wine is from light amber to amber, with a pink tint. The bouquet has a pronounced aroma of roses. The taste is soft, delicate, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 16%.

Anniversary "Magarach"
The wine is made from grape varieties Ruby Magarach, Bastardo Magarach, grown in the Bakhchisarai and Dzhankoy regions in the vineyards of the Magarach Institute.
The wine has a color from ruby ​​to dark ruby. The bouquet is complex, delicate, with characteristic tones of cream and prunes. The taste is full, harmonious.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 16%.

"Sunny Valley" [ ! ]
Prepared from local grape varieties Sary Pandas, Kok Sart, Sary Kabakh, Tashly, Kokur, grown at the Solnechnaya Dolina state farm in the Sudak region.
The color of the wine is from golden to dark amber with a pleasant soft glow of pure gold. The bouquet is very complex. It smells of peach, which is replaced by a peculiar fruity aroma with a hint of medlar. The taste is peculiar - delicate with a touch of exotic fruits.
The holding period is 2 years.
Fortress wine 16 vol.%, sugar 16%.

"Black Doctor" [ ! ]
The popular wine is made from local grape varieties Ekim Kara, Lapa Kara, Kefessia grown at the Solnechnaya Dolina state farm.
The wine is dark garnet color. The bouquet is complex, with a range of harmoniously combined shades: cocoa chocolate, prunes and vanilla. The taste is massive, velvety. The wine carries the reflection of the sun - a dark amber color. The bouquet has a pronounced Madeira tone - a light shade of roasted nuts and a pleasant fullness and pungency in taste.
The holding period is 5 years.
Fortress wine 19.5 vol.%, sugar 3%.

Madeira "Crimean"
Prepared from grape varieties Shabash, Sersial, Verdelho, grown in the vineyards of the association "Massandra".
The color of the wine is dark amber. Madeira tones are pronounced in the bouquet and taste.
The holding period is 4 years.
Fortress wine 19 vol.%, sugar 4%.

Sersial (type of Madeira)
It is prepared from the Sersial variety with an admixture of Albillo and Verdelho on the southern coast of Crimea at the Magarach Institute.
The color of the wine is golden to amber. Bouquet with pronounced tones of maderism and aging. The taste is delicate, harmonious, with a pleasant hint of red-hot nuts, somewhat burning.
The holding period is 4 years.
Fortress wine 19.5 vol.%, sugar 3 - 4%.

Madeira "Alminskaya"
Prepared from the Rkatsiteli variety grown in the vineyards of the Bakhchisarai region.
The color of the wine is from light golden to amber. The bouquet is complex, with clearly expressed tones of maderism, red-hot nuts. The taste is full, harmonious, with pleasant hints of red-hot nuts.
The holding period is 4 years.
Fortress wine 19.5 vol.%, sugar 5 - 6%.

Sherry "Crimean"
Prepared from grape varieties Rkatsiteli, Kokur, Aligote, Riesling, grown in the vineyards of the Crimea.
The color of the wine is golden. The bouquet of the wine is complex, characteristic of the type of wine. Specific taste with a nutty tone.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 19 vol.%, sugar 3%.

Sherry "Magarach" [ ! ]
Prepared from grape varieties Sauvignon, Aligote and Rkatsiteli in Bakhchisaray and Dzhankoy regions.
The color of the wine is straw to golden. The type of wine is clearly expressed in the bouquet. The taste is full, harmonious, with a specific aftertaste of roasted nuts.
The holding period is 4 years.
Fortress wine 19.5 vol.%, sugar 2.5%.

Port white "Crimean"

Port white "Surozh"
It is prepared from the Kokur variety and a mixture of European varieties growing in the Sudak region.
The color of the wine is golden to dark amber-gold. The wine has a stable bouquet, varietal aroma of Kokura, Tokay shade combined with fruit tones, full, harmonious taste.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 17.5 vol.%, sugar 9.5%.

Port white "South coast" [ ! ]
The best representative among vintage white ports. Prepared from grape varieties Aligote, Semillon, Pedro Jimenez and others grown on plantations of southern coastal state farms.
The color changes from light to dark amber and shimmers with life-giving warmth. The wine has a developed bouquet, dominated by fruit tones with a slight hint of almonds or roasted nuts. The soft taste is in harmony with the bouquet and leaves a strong and pleasant aftertaste.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress of wine 18 vol.%, sugar 10%.

Port white from Cabernet [ ! ] [ to ]
Unique strong vintage white wine. It was prepared from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in vineyards around the villages of Simeiz Massandra, Ai-Danil and the city of Alupka.
Honey amber in color, it has a uniquely complex bouquet with tones of subtropical fruit and a hint of bitter almond. The taste is soft, oily, harmonious, with a long pleasant aftertaste.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress of wine 18 vol.%, sugar 8%.

Port white "Golden Fortune Archaderesse"
Prepared from grape varieties Kokur white, Rkatsiteli, native varieties of Sary Pandas, Kok Pandas, Soldaya, Solnechnodolinsky, Kapselsky white and others grown at the Solnechnaya Dolina state farm.
The color of the wine is from light golden to dark golden. The bouquet is full, soft, harmonious, spicy-honey with a slight astringency. Pronounced spicy-honey tones are combined with the smell of bread crust and cocoa tones. Aboriginal varieties give the wine shades of oriental exotic fruits, while European varieties emphasize elegance and harmony. The taste is full, harmonious, soft, with a persistent aftertaste.
The holding period is 3 years.

Port white "Magarach"
It is prepared from grape varieties Rkatsiteli, Aligote and a mixture of European varieties growing in the Bakhchisaray and Dzhankoy regions.
The color of the wine is from light golden to amber. Bouquet typical of white port with fruity notes. The taste is full, harmonious, with a pleasant aftertaste.
The holding period is 3 years.

Port wine red "Crimean"
Prepared from red European grape varieties grown in the Crimea.
The color of the wine is garnet-ruby. Fruit tones are well expressed in the bouquet. Full, harmonious taste characteristic of red wines.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 17.5 vol.%, sugar 10%.

Port wine red "Massandra" [ ! ]
It is prepared from the Mourvedre grape variety with the addition of high-quality red varieties of Cabernet and Malbec cultivated on the southern coast of Crimea.
The color of the wine is ruby ​​to garnet. In the bouquet, the specific tones of the Mourvedre variety are pronounced. The taste is masculine, full, harmonious.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 18.5 vol.%, sugar 6%.

Port wine red "South coast" [ ! ]
Prepared from grape varieties Morastel, Saperavi, Cabernet, cultivated on the southern coast of Crimea.
The color of the wine is ruby ​​with garnet hues. Bouquet of good build with spicy and fruity tones. On the palate fullness and velvety, so characteristic of classic ports.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress of wine 18 vol.%, sugar 11%.

Port wine red "Black Colonel"
Prepared from native grape varieties: Javat Kara, Ekim Kara, Kefessia, grown at the Solnechnaya Dolina state farm. The name of the wine comes from the variety Javat Kara, which in translation from the Turkic dialect means black colonel.
The wine is painted in an elegant ruby ​​​​color. It has a complex bouquet with a delicate aroma of cream and chocolate. The taste is harmonious and velvety.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress 17.5 vol.%, sugar 11%.

Port wine red "Livadia" [ ! ]
This unique wine is made from Cabernet Sauvignon grown on the southern coast of Crimea.
The wine captivates with a lively, dark garnet color. The bouquet has a delicate aroma of cherry pits and a pronounced morocco tone. On the palate, amazing fullness and silky tenderness.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 18.5 vol.%, sugar 8%.

Port wine red "Magarach" [ ! ]
It is prepared from grape varieties Bastardo, Ruby Magarach, Merlot, Mourvedr grown in the vineyards of Bakhchisaray and Dzhankoy.
The color of the wine is dark red with garnet hues. The bouquet has pronounced fruit tones with a cherry tint. The taste is full, harmonious.
The holding period is 3 years.
Fortress wine 17 vol.%, sugar 6%.

I can’t say about myself that I am a special connoisseur or connoisseur of alcohol, in everyday life I practically don’t drink, but I definitely associate all the resorts of the Crimean peninsula with wine: wow, what kind of wine is there in Crimea! Yes, it's just amazing! So a vacation or a business trip to the coast is never complete without a glass or two of some kind of wine, while with equal pleasure I like to drink those varieties that I have already tasted, and those that I come across for the first time. I definitely take a few bottles with me - it's always a good gift for both relatives and friends - I don't know a single person who would say that he doesn't like Crimean wines!

I happened to go on excursions to the Crimean winery, walk through the local vineyards, and it seemed to me that here nature itself created an ideal place for the vine to grow and grow stronger, and the bunch of grapes to fill with a sweet aroma, which will then be transferred to wine. And the winemakers here have always been good - through their efforts, such drinks were created, about which even legends began to be added. For example, the wines "Black Doctor" and "Black Colonel" - if you look into the tasting room of the Arkhaderesse plant, then everyone tells about these drinks - from guides to sellers in the company store.

In Crimea, by the way, a lot is connected with winemaking - the history of the production of this drink has become an integral part of the history of the region as a whole: for example, many villages appeared on the map precisely because vineyards are blooming here or wine cellars have been located since ancient times.

Wine in the Crimea is a sunny drink that brings only benefits and health to a person, everyone here should definitely try it - at least take a sip, this bouquet and this aroma are simply indescribable. It is not for nothing that many consider these wines to be as valuable and of high quality as the best European varieties, but at a more affordable price.

Crimea abounds in wine. There is a company store or a tasting room on every corner, every Crimean cafe or restaurant offers its own brands. True, here you have to beware of fakes - they sell a lot of hand-made wine in the markets, claiming that this is a home-made product made from some very valuable grape variety, but in fact it may turn out to be the most common surrogate, so show common sense - if you are embarrassed by the plastic bottles that are shoved into your hands in the market, then it is better to refuse such a purchase, especially since there is always a company store somewhere nearby and it has a very generous assortment.

A few words about the history of winemaking in Crimea

As I already wrote, the history of Crimea is the history of winemaking as well. They are very closely connected here, so even if you are a non-drinker, some of the wine-making artifacts of ancient times will definitely catch your eye. The most striking example is Chersonese, where you can see the ruins of ancient factories where wine was produced.

It is believed that people began to turn grapes into an alcoholic drink in these lands during the time of antiquity - somewhere between the 6th century BC. BC. and IV c. AD This production was started here by the Greeks, who, as you know, drank more wine than water - not out of pernicious passion, but rather out of common sense, because at that time water was taken simply from rivers and drinking it was dangerous to health, but wine ( diluted with water) was safe as it had disinfecting properties.

At the time of the Byzantine invasion of the Crimea, wine production here became downright large-scale, but it declined when the Turks began to settle in the region - devout Muslims do not drink alcohol.

Modern winemaking in the Crimea is the merit of Prince Potemkin Tauride, who undertook the revival of winemaking and brought Tokay vines to the region. And the dawn and recognition of Crimean wines is the work of Count Vorontsov, who intensively cultivated grapes here and even created a school of horticulture and viticulture in Magarach.

You can learn a lot about the history of winemaking if you visit the village. I really like champagne (sparkling) wines from this village - they were created by Prince Golitsyn, who for the winemakers of the region is a real ancestor, a torch and a model. So almost everything that is proposed to be seen in the village is one way or another connected with wine and with the prince: a factory, the ruins of an old production, cellars, and so on.

What wines to try?

Of course, this is a matter of taste. Types of Crimean wines are as follows:

• table wines (dry, red and rose);
• fortified wines (white and red ports, sherry, madeira, a huge number of varieties of dessert wines);
• flavored wines;
• sparkling wine;
• cognacs;
• balms.

Regarding sparkling wines, there is even a historical anecdote that the name “champagne” was assigned to them with the light hand of the Leader of the Nations, Joseph Stalin - it was he who came up with the idea of ​​calling all sparkling wines “champagne”, although this is somewhat absurd - only sparkling wines could be called that at one time originally from Champagne. So, on the beaches of Sudak, during the holiday season, barkers invite to the Novy Svet winery, claiming that it is he who is the birthplace of champagne.

I will try to designate at least an approximate list of wines that you should definitely try if you are relaxing in the Crimea. Although, of course, this list can be supplemented with your favorite varieties that you personally will like. Personally, I would recommend you the following varieties:

• table dry white wines: Aligote, Chardonnay and Sauvignon;
• table dry red wines: "Cabernet", "Saperavi", "Merlot"
• fortified port: "Sevastopol";
• dessert "Sun in a glass", "Talisman", "Carnelian of Taurida";
• Muscat "White Muscat Livadia", "White Muscat Magarach".

But my most absolute favorites are from the assortment of the Solnechnaya Dolina state farm-factory, originally Crimean wines. Brands of other wines with a similar price cannot boast such excellent taste and smell. Among the wines of the state farm-factory, I would especially like to note the vintage dessert wine of the same name - "Solnechnaya Dolina", it has a long history, since it was developed more than half a century ago and is produced only by this winery. This wine has a golden color and a complex honey-floral bouquet. Just nectar, not wine.

Be sure to try the "Black Doctor" - this is a rare, and therefore very expensive brand. But this wine is worth every penny spent on it - it tastes like a complex bouquet of prunes, chocolate notes and vanilla shades. They say it has miraculous healing properties: it heals both the soul and the body. This wine is not available for bottling even in branded stores, but you can buy a non-standard small bottle for testing - it can also become a good souvenir from the Crimea.

And as for options that are economical in price, but excellent in quality, this is Muscat Festival wine - a light, sweet, pink dessert wine. In the summer heat, it is especially easy and pleasant to drink, as it has a nutmeg aroma with citrus notes.

And, of course, in branded stores you can buy branded tinctures - alcohol, herbs, medicinal. This, one might say, is your stock of health and good mood for the winter: if you add a spoonful of such tincture to tea or coffee, then you will get sick less often, and the aromas of Crimean herbs and healing potions of Crimea will be with you for a very long time.

The most famous wineries in Crimea

There are many wineries on the peninsula and almost everyone has their own cellars, company stores, tasting rooms. Excursions around the plant are also held here - it’s interesting to visit such an excursion, but don’t expect much: the grapes are crushed, the juice is separated from the cake and the wine is aged - that’s, in fact, that’s all. However, they can also show from observation platforms or on layouts of the area what outlines the vineyards have, what varieties are grown here. Be sure to tell a few words about the founders of winemaking, about the history of production, about the origin of the vines, because many varieties have been restored here (for example, the modern "Black Colonel" is already a slightly different wine than what once earned fame and settled down in myths, no less tasty - but different). Informative for general development, but there is no special magic in this - the alchemist does not mix the sun into a glass, bare-footed virgins do not crush grapes in a tub, and all processes are automated and not at all spectacular. But the tour ends with a tasting and it is enthusiastic.

The largest and most popular factories in the Crimea are:

• factory of fine wines and cognacs "Koktebel";
• winery "Massandra";

• Inkerman factory of vintage wines;
• sparkling wine factory "";
• Bakhchisaray winery;
• institute of grapes and wine "Magarach".

Some drinks from the range of these factories and combines are sold in stores in Russia and Ukraine, so many may be familiar, but only in the cellars and company shops at the factory you can buy rare wine, with aging and an unforgettable bouquet.

Crimean wine has become not just a synonym for high quality. In fact, the result of observing the centuries-old traditions of winemaking and products coming from the peninsula have become a kind of "special caste" - elite alcohol. Even the most affordable products, for example, from Massandra vineyards, already have a guarantee of quality.

The mark “made in Crimea” can be called the key to the successful sale of alcohol, since the peninsula seemed to have been created for the ripening of grapes and the creation of distilleries. The caressing sun, mild climate and the proximity of black soil to dry air saturated with Black Sea salt make it possible to grow almost any variety from tart Merlot to sweetish Cabernet. Crimean wine is very popular and competes equally with the wines of France.

"Vinland" at the Black Sea

No one knows exactly how ancient the history of the art of winemaking in Crimea is. It is known that in one way or another the science of distillate synthesis was applied by the population of the peninsula during the last 2 thousand years. For the period of the capture of the Crimea by the Ottoman Empire with the subsequent prohibition of alcohol on religious grounds, the wine of the Crimea fell under the ban. However, already under the Russian Empire, its production acquired an unprecedented scope. So, for example, Prince Potemkin, who made a very significant contribution to the development of the southern provinces and the peninsula, ordered that more than 2/3 of the foothill territories be planted with vineyards. It is they who will become the basis of distilleries, and later industrial plants, including the world-famous Massandra.

Extracts from the history of the art of winemaking

The true history of the formation of winemaking on the territory of the Crimea is a topic worthy, if not of scientific research, then of extensive research work. It is worth noting several important stages in the development of this art. So, for example, during the Second World War, the option of transporting wineries deep into the USSR along with industrial capacities was seriously considered. However, the idea was abandoned as unprofitable.

However, relatively modest damage was inflicted on the vineyards both during the offensive of the German armies and during the counterattack of Soviet soldiers. The “dry law” of 1985 hit the Crimean wine industry much harder. At this time, the very existence of factories was threatened.

Now winemaking in the Crimea remains one of the key sectors of the economy. Albeit with a limited market. A real scandal was caused by the arrest of Massandra wines of Crimea at an exhibition in Verona at the request of the Ukrainian side. The incident took place in April 2017.

Winery "Massandra"

This production can be safely called the visiting card of the peninsula in the world of elite wines. The first distillery was founded in the village of the same name in 1894. In 1998, the company's wine collection was recognized as the largest in the world and listed in the Guinness Book of Records.

Despite the fact that the main source of income for the plant is the export of alcohol with potential, the company is also engaged in the cultivation of tobacco and fruits. In 2009, the company's production volume for the financial year amounted to about 10 million bottles of more than 60 brands. Most of them fall into the category of high value fortified and aged wines. However, the company also supplies more affordable alcohol to the market.

"Bastard" of French winemaking

The names of Crimean wines are largely dictated by the territory where the grapes were grown, followed by distillation and aging. But there is an exception. However, this does not apply to the two most famous Crimean wines from the Massandra brand - Sherry and Bastardo. The first wine is a strong spirit with a blend of Albillo, Verdelho and Sersial varieties, which occupy less than 0.5% of the vineyards.

Alcohol has been supplied since 1944 and is considered one of the leaders in the segment of white table drinks. But "Bastardo" took a different position, namely a sweetish dessert wine. The drink has been produced since 2003, but has already earned immense popularity in the market. A distinctive feature is the notes of prunes and chocolate, as well as the extremely high sweetness of the drink (the sugar level in the berries is more than 24%, which is typical for liquors). The Massandra winery in Crimea, as of 2017, occupies the position of the largest on the territory of the peninsula.

Such a beautiful "Koktebel"

"Koktebel" is the second well-known factory of vintage wines and cognacs in the Crimea. He is even somewhat older than Massandra. The first distillery appeared on the territory of Koktebel in 1879. A distinctive feature of the plant is its specialization in very aged VIP alcohol. The age of some Koktebel cognacs reaches 20 years, while raw materials are supplied exclusively from the company's own vineyards.

Until 2012, branded stores of Crimean wines from the Koktebel brand were opened even abroad. Since most of the products were exported. Crimean wines from this plant have been awarded in more than 170 nominations, including international sommelier exhibitions of the highest qualification.

Alcohol worthy of ancient masters

The lion's share of wines from the Koktebel brand provides for a blend, which includes local varieties or "immigrants" from neighboring countries. We are talking about Rkatsiteli and Saperavi. It should be noted that the first variety is widely used by other winemakers, including those in the north of Crimea. But Saperavi and the strong wine obtained from it occupies only 1%, and therefore is quite rare. The production also supplies the eminent white wine of the Chardonnay blend.

However, Koktebel itself is excellent for growing technical grape varieties, from which cognac spirits are obtained. In addition to vintage three-star cognac, Koktebel also supplies OS (XO), the exposure of which reaches 20 years. Reviews of Crimean wines are almost always positive when it comes to a genuine drink. Productions such as Koktebel have their own quality mark on the packaging. They ask customers to carefully monitor the authenticity of the product.

Other factories with a big name

Winemaking is extremely common on the peninsula. However, only a few of the largest enterprises should be noted, the supply of products of which has crossed the mark of hundreds of thousands of bottles in one cycle. The Inkerman plant, which is part of Inkerman International, is worth mentioning. Initially, the distillery processed only Rkatsiteli and Cabernet, after which workshops for strong drinks and dessert alcohol appeared. The famous rosé wine "Heraclea", which is actually the leader of its small segment, was first created here. "Crimean Aligote", vintage wine, is also produced under this brand.

The Novy Svet plant, which specializes in sparkling drinks, also deserves a mark. The company produces exclusively champagne. It has managed to change its profile several times over the centuries. In 1878, Grand Duke Golitsyn laid the foundation for the enterprise. Despite the fact that the estate was plundered between 1918 and 1920, the plant retained some production facilities and was later reconstructed. As of 2017, the brand produces about 16 types of sparkling wines, including vintages awarded with international awards.

Blending varieties and the history of the formation of vineyards

The territory of the Crimean peninsula is the best suited for growing grapes on an industrial scale. Traditionally, local enterprises rely primarily on raw materials directly from the Crimea. The lion's share of sweet and semi-sweet varieties is concentrated in the south of the peninsula, while strong, white counterparts are grown in the center and foothill areas.

The composition of the soil is excellent for the rapid ripening of grapes, and the mild climate with dry air contributes to the natural protection of fruits from pests and various diseases. Crimean wines (red wine) are made from Merlot, which is also located on the territory of the plains. But the eminent Chardonnay feels impressively in the north.

The most common grape varieties

The eminent "Georgian" Rkatsiteli to this day remains the basis of the Crimean vineyards. This variety occupies more than 43% of the territory. Productivity on the peninsula is estimated as high. Despite the average ripening period, the ecosystem contributes to an increase in sucrose and glucose in fruits, which allows the use of Rkatsiteli at an earlier stage of ripening. Serves as the basis for a blend of dessert, table, strong, vintage dry wines.

Combines with Cabernet in Crimean wines, emphasizing the large-scale bouquet of the latter. Rkatsiteli is competing with Aligote. Serves as the basis for blends for vintage white wines "Massandra" and "Koktebel". Quite capricious, but still took root in 14% of the vineyards of the peninsula.

Sauvignon and Cabernet occupy an average of 5% and are also included in the blend of vintage drinks. But the eminent Merlot is used by only a few enterprises. A little more than 2% of the territory fell to its share.

Red Saperavi has found distribution under the Massandra brand. It can often be found in the vineyards of the trademark. It is noteworthy that on the territory of Crimea there are many varieties of "home-grown" grapes or so-called bastards from the main blend, characteristic of the French appellation. They occupy over 10% of the territory and, one way or another, are involved in the production of most branded drinks. In addition, home winemaking is very common in the Crimea, so to one degree or another, each farm has its own vineyards.

Their names should be known

A number of the most famous wines of the Crimea are named after the varieties that served as the basis for the drink. So, for example, among the famous white varieties and alcohol made from them are: Chardonnay, Aligote, Rkatsiteli and Sauvignon.

Connoisseurs also note the taste of Kokura and Riesling. Crimean wines (red wines) are also rich in various types of Cabernet, Saperavi and Merlot. Among the desserts, it is worth highlighting "Sunny Valley", "Bastardo" and "Carnelian of Taurida".

Among the sparkling wines, the most popular are Sevastopol wines, which, even during the existence of the USSR, were served at the table of the party elite. Among the newcomers with potential, it is worth highlighting Agora, a wine of the Crimea, the blend of which is based on the same Saperavi.

Taste palette and external characteristics

The taste palette of Crimean wine, according to reviews, is incredibly extensive in terms of accents and aftertaste. Each connoisseur will be able to choose his own drink: delicate or tart, bitter or sickly sweet. Each variety has its own characteristics. Speaking in general, the southern vineyards are characterized by spicy bitterness with a bright caramel aftertaste. For example, Aligote, a white variety, has such an accent - floral taste and caramel. But Rkatsiteli is more temperamental, with a strong, pronounced varietal accent in taste. There is a pattern here. The further north the vineyards are, the stronger the sourness is expressed in them and the emphasis is on the taste of the fruit.

White varieties differ in color palette from pale yellow to straw and even golden honey. Dark ruby ​​"Chardonnay", in turn, distinguishes the fortress and a full bouquet with an emphasis on fruity notes. The same is typical for "Saperavi", in the properties of which it is closely related to the pomegranate drink, including the characteristic sweetness in the aftertaste.

Crimean wines are extremely diverse in terms of taste palette and have their own character. Drinks made from varieties that were bred by selection have incorporated an extensive floral bouquet, characteristic of the foothills and some of the southern territories of the peninsula. Not all red varieties acquire a characteristic morocco shade. Therefore, you should choose carefully.

Geopolitics and the current state of enterprises

The administration of the peninsula declares that the geopolitical situation on the territory of the peninsula should not affect the position of enterprises for the production of alcohol and fine wines. The incident with the arrest of an entire batch of products in April 2017 is a clear demonstration of a kind of embargo on the supply of wines from Crimea.

Nevertheless, the factories continue to function, and the management often declares its own removal from political squabbles and the desire to engage exclusively in the art of winemaking. After all, the peninsula has been supplying wine in large quantities for several centuries, and the current situation in the industry threatens to reduce employment and development rates.

Crimean wines are a bright representative of the category of products that has long outgrown a certain attachment to an enterprise or brand. The geolocation of alcohol has become a calling card and a guarantee of its quality. Many sommeliers recognize the status of vintage Crimean wines, which in itself is a recognition of the quality of products from the peninsula.

It remains to be hoped that the current situation with the supply of alcohol from the Crimea will be resolved in favor of one "player" - the very sphere of winemaking, which has become traditional for residents. Otherwise, the world risks losing the best Crimean wines with their own character and bright personality.

The Crimean peninsula has always been famous for its wine products. The peculiarities of the climate and relief allow winemakers to grow rare varieties of grapes that are used to make different types of wine. The history of Crimea goes back to ancient times, when the Greeks inhabited this wonderful peninsula. The ability to make amazing wines has been passed down from generation to generation. And after many centuries this noble drink is considered an integral part of the Crimean peninsula, its symbol. What are the production features of this drink? Why are Crimean wines considered among the best? What distinguishes fake wine from real?

Special conditions for growing Crimean grapes

Unique beneficial properties, as well as an unforgettable taste, are largely determined by the specifics of the region, namely the geographical location. On a relatively small area of ​​the peninsula, about 27 thousand square kilometers, there are many zones where different grape varieties can grow. Ripening in a mild climate under the influence of gentle southern rays, grapes are used in the manufacture of muscat, port wine, sherry. The vine growing along the Chernaya, Kacha, Alma, Belbek rivers becomes the basis for many table wines. The fruit soils of the steppes of the peninsula are also used to make table wines. The steppe part is especially fond of industrial winemakers, as here the grapes ripen faster, and the harvest is famous for its abundance. In addition, the climate and relief features of the peninsula favorably affect those varieties of grapes and vines that were brought to Crimea from other territories or bred artificially. Some of the varieties are very rare and grow only in the south of Crimea.

Crimean wine producers

Arriving on vacation in the Crimea, any tourist begins to get acquainted with local attractions and cuisine. Good-natured Crimeans offer to try homemade wine, go for chacha or buy a bottle of fragrant cognac. We advise you to refrain from such offers in order not to spend the rest of your vacation in a local hospital. There are several proven brands whose wine, cognac, champagne you can safely buy:

• "Inkerman"
• "Golden beam"
• "Koktebel"
• "Magarach"
• "Massandra"
• "New World"
• "Sunny Valley"

All seven brands are checked by a special study. All wines are made only from natural grape juices, without the addition of chemicals and powders. In addition, manufacturers carefully monitor the level of product quality, so the degree of protection is high. Giving preference to these manufacturers, you will enjoy the taste of the best Crimean wines. Any products of these trading companies can be bought in special stores or in a supermarket.

The best wines of the Crimean peninsula

Today the Crimean market is replete with a variety of wine products. Therefore, everyone can find the wine he likes. But despite this, there are a number of wines that are especially valued and have been awarded many awards. For example, the famous Crimean wine of Lev Golitsyn. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the prince owned the Novy Svet winery. In 1900, Golitsyn won the top prize at a wine exhibition in France. Since then, "New World Champagne" has become the pride of the famous prince. But, to the great regret of local winemakers, the vine from which champagne was made has been bred. And the modern "Soviet" champagne, which at one time became a real discovery of Russian winemakers, differs in composition from the famous prince's champagne.

Despite this, the wine "The Seventh Heaven of Prince Golitsyn" is considered popular in our time on the Crimean peninsula, produced under the brand name "Massandra". There is a legend that the prince once tasted the contents of a barrel, where material unsuitable for making wine was poured. Golitsyn liked the taste of this content so much that he devoted 15 years to restoring the bright, unique taste. Having tried combinations of many ingredients, the prince achieved the desired result, thanks to which we can enjoy the honey taste of this wine.

If you want to cook, you can add some red wine to the meat.

If you are making macaroni and cheese, white wine is the best accompaniment to the dish. You can read the recipe.

Having prepared the dessert "Fruit Salad with Yogurt" - - you can serve strong white wine to the table.

Wine is considered another masterpiece of Crimean winemaking. "Black Doctor". It is no coincidence that this red wine is called that way. Firstly, it contains many vitamins, including vitamin B, which tones the body, improves heart function and blood circulation. Secondly, according to legend, the grapes for this wine were brought out by a doctor who once lived in the Crimea. This doctor was not only a true connoisseur of good wine products, but also a professional winemaker. Thirdly, the wine has a dark, saturated color, for which it received the name "Black". The taste of wine is also unusual. True lovers can feel the taste of pear and mulberry, cream and vanilla.

Wine for tourists

The wines that we talked about earlier are among the elite ones, so the price for them is justifiably high. Tourists who come to stay in the Crimea are interested in cheaper and more affordable wines. At the same time, we note that cheap types of wines from manufacturers are of high quality and have a memorable deep taste.

Many tourists prefer to buy Massandra products. A pleasant strong taste is considered a distinctive feature of the wines of this brand. "Massandra" specializes in the production of dessert wines, both sweet and stronger. Especially popular among Crimeans and tourists are various types of port wine, sherry, Madeira.

Another popular trademark of the Crimea "Magarach" in the department of the Institute of Winemaking. This manufacturer produces not only expensive elite wines, but also dessert and table wines available for tourists. In addition, Magarach specializes in the production of sparkling wines, cognac, the taste of which is appreciated all over the world. Dry and sweet wines produced by the brand leave pleasant memories of the sunny peninsula in the memory of tourists, and therefore are considered the most popular.

Crimean wines are drinks for connoisseurs with a developed taste. Thanks to the observance of long-established traditions, these wines have been delighting consumers with their unique bouquet and excellent aroma for decades. Many wine lovers give their preference to exactly those specimens that were made in the Crimea.

In the article:

Crimean wines

Thanks for such high-quality and sought-after products should be those craftsmen who are engaged in production at numerous factories located on the Crimean peninsula. The most famous of them:

• Inkerman;
• Golden amphora;
• New World;
• Massandra;
• Golden beam;
• Koktebel;
• Sevastopol factory of sparkling wines.

An interesting fact is that the Koktebel plant, in addition to the production of wines, also produces cognac of amazing quality.

White wines of Crimea

White wines from the Crimea deserve special attention among the variety of varieties. One has only to remember the same port wine "Cabernet" - vintage white wine made using special grapes "Cabernet Sauvignon", which grows near the city of Alupka.

The taste will not be clear to a simple layman right away - the wine begins to play with might and main shades of aromas and fully reveal the flavor range when the aftertaste sets in - only then you can feel how everything inside seems to be filled with a barely noticeable aroma of almonds and various tropical fruits. In general, the taste of the drink turned out to be quite soft, and at the same time slightly viscous.

"South Coast" white port wine

If the story is about the white wines of the Crimea, one cannot fail to mention the "South Coast" white port wine. Still - the drink is rightfully recognized as the best in its class. The grape variety used to make South Coast Port wine is not familiar to everyone and has the exquisite name Aligoté, or its alternative, Semillon, can be used. The color of the wine depends on which variety is chosen for making wine. The drink has several color options, from bright white to dark with a hint of amber. This wine has a very unusual aftertaste, vaguely reminiscent of roasted peanuts.

And here are a few more popular families of white wines that can definitely be recommended to any connoisseur:

• Magarach;
• Surozh;
• Golden fortune archaderesse;
• Port Crimean.

Red Crimean wines

This wine category has its own crowds of admirers. Cabernet, one of the best Crimean red wines, enjoys special attention. Its taste matches the color - bright, catchy and memorable, and all thanks to the already mentioned Sauvignon grape, which also acts as the main ingredient here.

Do not forget about Alushta wine - this specimen is able to give no less taste pleasure. To get its unique aroma, the manufacturer had to mix the taste properties of the most selected grape varieties: Morastel, Sapevari, Mourvedre and several more representatives, including even Cabernet Sauvignon.

Alushta wine is that rare case when the quantity of ingredients used really grew into quality: the aroma of the drink is very light, you literally dissolve in it, distracting from the hustle and bustle.

Unique Crimean wines

Connoisseurs probably know that wine masters give their main masterpieces their own unique name - such drinks can be safely called the best creations of their authors. Of course, it is impossible not to mention them.

Crimean night

Here, for example, wine called "Crimean Night", produced under the authorship of Tsurkan Valery Andreevich - the chief master of the plant for the production of wines "Plodovoe". Although the plant itself cannot boast of its huge size and numerous branches in various regions, not least thanks to the Crimean Night, it was awarded four gold and three silver awards at various competitions around the world. And all thanks to those grape varieties that are used to give a refined taste to the drink: Pinot, Aligote, Chardonnay and others.

Sherry, or the so-called “courageous” wine, should be highlighted in particular. It is special, if only because the method of its production is different from the others: the wine is infused in special barrels, but they are not completely filled, and a layer of wine yeast is applied on top. So it is infused for four years, periodically young and dessert wine is added to each container for mixing. The drink turns out to be very strong, its consistency can reach up to 20% of the alcohol content, but this is the charm of sherry. "Courageous" wine is advised to drink hot dishes and snacks.

As for the price - it will depend on the specific variety. The range is from the most democratic to. However, the price will not seem so sky-high even to an inexperienced person, because it will pay off with the unusual aroma and charm of Crimean wines.

In our time, Crimea is a wonderful territory for creating quality wines. There are already standing samples and time-tested producers here, but the winemaking potential of the peninsula is so huge that in the future, we are sure, local wines will be in demand far beyond its borders.

History of winemaking in Crimea

Winemaking in Crimea originated not hundreds, but thousands of years ago! And if we can accurately find here archaeological evidence of viticulture and winemaking from antiquity, that is, from the sixth century BC, then according to indirect evidence, wine was made in the Crimea long before the appearance of the Greeks. It is believed that even the Taurians, the ancient inhabitants of the peninsula, were already cultivating grapes and developing their own winemaking methods. There is little surprise in this: on the territory of Crimea, nature itself has created ideal conditions for winemaking, suitable soils, a mild climate, an abundance of sun - from time immemorial, the vines feel great in this climatic zone.

The center of the Crimean winemaking was the Bakhchisarai region. Archaeologists have found tarapans carved into the ground here - special presses for wine. In Mangup, Chufut-Kale, Eski-Kermen, Kachi-Kalyon they made wine not only for their own use, but also for sale, trade was carried out with Europe.

Unfortunately, the Crimean vineyards faced serious challenges, as well as winemaking traditions. It can be said that the very course of history either contributed to the rapid flourishing of the Crimean winemaking, or practically led to its death. First, the Huns, Khazars, Polovtsy, Pechenegs attacked the settlements of the Taurians, causing the local vineyards to fall into disrepair. After that, the locals again restored the traditions of making ancient drinks.

In the XIII century, the Genoese, seizing the lands of the peninsula and moving along the coast, successfully developed winemaking, making this area a major place for the wine trade. But another rise was followed by a period of desolation. The next decline awaited the vineyards in the XV century with the fall of Genoese rule and the invasion of the Turks. The traditions of local winemaking will be revived in a completely different form and only at the beginning of the 19th century, through the work of amateur enthusiasts, including Count M.S. Vorontsov.

After so many years and so many blows of fate in our time, Crimean winemakers are reviving the great history of local wines, planting new vines, working with European and local varieties, improving equipment and introducing proven world technologies. Already, Crimean wines are reaching a fundamentally new level, and we are sure that the quality of local winemaking will only grow.

Varieties of Crimean wines

Among the Crimean wines, everyone is guaranteed to find something to their taste. After all, Crimean wines are not the same type of products, but completely different producers, varieties, technologies and price categories. Even with similar production methods, wines are obtained with their own special character. On the territory of the peninsula you will find more than twenty different climatic zones, and the variety of soils, landscapes and terroirs make the grapes special, and the wines from it individual.

What kind of wines can be tasted in Crimea? In short, almost any! Young or aged, white or red, dry or sweet, light or fortified - choose and be sure to try.

If we make some general classification of Crimean wines, then the list of points will turn out to be huge. So let's try to cover at least the most basic.

Table wines are one of the most lively and natural products. No alcohol or flavors - only grape juice. As the name implies, it is customary to serve them to the table and accompany them with a meal. Table wines you can try white, red or rosé. Most often they are represented by dry varieties and contain no more than 0.3% sugar. And if you take semi-sweet or semi-dry, then sugar is not added to them, this is a natural sweetness obtained due to the increased sugar content in the berry itself. The percentage of alcohol in them often ranges from 10 to 13 percent.

Fortified wines are another pride of Crimea. As the name implies, they have a high strength. This means that alcohol is added to the wine during fermentation. They are divided in turn into strong and dessert. Strong port wine, Madeira or sherry, dessert Cahors, Muscat and Tokay - you definitely heard these names, be sure to appreciate their Crimean incarnation!

For example, ports are made using a special technology for heating pulp and wine materials, as well as subsequent aging. Port wines, although associated with Portugal, have a long history in the Crimean land. At the end of the 19th century, the first Russian ports were produced here. It was port wines that became one of the first wines, the production of which was launched at the Bakhchisarai KVKZ, opened in 1963. Now there is a separate line of red and white ports.

Sparkling wines are divided into ordinary, vintage and collection according to the duration of exposure, brut, dry, semi-dry, semi-sweet and nutmeg according to sugar content, as well as traditional and reservoir according to production technology. There are also sparkling wines. This is a still wine with an artificial addition of carbon dioxide.

By the way, cognac also has a direct relation to winemaking. After all, its basis is grape spirits, which again are born in the Crimean vineyards. The cognacs of the Koktebel and Bakhchisaray factories are definitely worth your attention.

How to choose quality wine?

One of the Crimean stereotypes is that you can buy wine from any taxi driver. Yes, you can, but you don't have to. Please do not risk buying "homemade wine" from strangers and local markets. Unfortunately, no one can guarantee you the safety of such a product. Let's drop this risky option and try to choose a good wine.

• Buy wine where you definitely won’t run into a fake: in branded stores, at a factory, in specialized liquor stores, wineries or proven large chains. The advice of a sales assistant can help you if you understand what you would like to try.
• Always pay attention to the storage conditions of the drink: if the room is too hot or damp, and the bottles are not horizontal, there is a risk of buying already spoiled wine. You will have to avoid supermarkets and budget stores, where violations of storage standards are common.
• The bottle itself must also be of high quality and well designed. You need opaque glass to block out the sun, a secure stopper, and a label firmly attached with all the necessary information. If something is suspicious, it is better to avoid such a bottle.
• The label itself is worth reading. Pay attention to the composition, grape varieties, harvest year, compliance with GOST, manufacturer's data, the presence of an excise stamp, and so on. This will help detect counterfeit.
• Now there is another way to find a good wine - the PGI badge on the label. This means “wine with a protected geographical indication”, that is, the harvest for it was harvested in the Crimea, and not brought in a tank from distant countries.
• One of the important factors in choosing a quality wine is cost. Unfortunately, very cheap wine is rarely good.

Wines KVKZ "Bakhchisarai"

Crimean wine and cognac factory "Bakhchisaray" is one of the largest and oldest wineries in Crimea. It has existed since 1963, and the traditions of Bakhchisarai winemaking themselves are centuries old! Back in the 6th-14th centuries AD, wines were already successfully produced here and even traded with Europe, where Crimean wines were valued for their original aromas and tastes. Now in Bakhchisarai there is a full-cycle enterprise, a unique winery with European equipment and the highest quality standards.

Bakhchisarai has its own vineyards and new varieties are constantly planted, so there is no risk of encountering an imported bulk, low-quality wine materials or fakes.

The plant "Bakhchisaray" produces:

• six lines of first-class wines;
• four lines of cognac;
• natural apple ciders;
• original balms on Crimean herbs and aromatic plants.

The wines of the trade mark "Bakhchisaray" are represented by the "Crimean" and "Southern" series, a series of light wines and ports, as well as an elite author's collection. There is also a more affordable, but no less high-quality trademark "Legends of Ai-Petri". These are democratic wines from a blend of European grape varieties and cognacs.

1. The Crimean line reflects terrarar well - these are dry, semi-dry and semi-sweet red and white wines from European and autochthonous grape varieties.
2. Southern wines are represented by assemblages that perfectly reflect the Crimean flavor and perfectly match the local cuisine.
3. In the light series you will find semi-sweet varietal and blended wines with a low level of alcohol - light and drinkable.
4. The author's line is noble wine drinks, unlike other wines of the peninsula. Fortified and sweet, semi-sweet and dry, red, white and pink - you will remember them not only for their interesting names ("Khan's Palace", "Moonlight Sonata", "Janike" and so on), but also for their bright tastes and rich aromas.
5. Port wines are made here in red and white, using the classic port wine technology. These are elite drinks, delicate and balanced.

Separately, we highlight the fact that some wines are presented not only in classic bottles, but also in a volume of 375 ml, as well as in Bag in Box containers of 10 liters. All the same level of quality, but in a volume convenient for you to choose from!

Of course, you can't try Bakhchisaray wines, missing the opportunity to appreciate local cognacs, as well as refreshing cider and invigorating balm.

The best wines of Crimea

The wines of "Bakhchisaray" can be safely recommended to friends to also take home as a fragrant Crimean souvenir. But of course, these are not the only quality products on the peninsula. If you want something authentic and different from the usual wines, but take a closer look at the Crimean autochthonous varieties, the main value of local winemakers.

Originally Crimean native varieties are often found here and they grow only here. Nowadays, experts count more than 70 of them. Of course, you will not find good wine from all of them, but some are definitely worth trying. If we were already talking about the Bakhchisaray KVKZ, then Bastardo Magarachsky is successfully cultivated here and original wines are made from it.

When choosing Crimean wines, you can always focus on older wineries that have earned a reputation, experience, and consumer confidence.

Their list is familiar to many:

• "Magarach"
• "Massandra"
• "Bakhchisaray"
• "Golden beam"
• "Koktebel"
• "New World"
• "Sunny Valley"

In their assortment you can always find something to your taste. Many wineries conduct tours and tastings, so you can see everything with your own eyes, and make sure of the quality, and try something new.

What wines should you definitely try in Crimea? One of the most popular has long been called "The Seventh Heaven of Prince Golitsyn" from "Massandra". This white dessert wine has been produced since 1880, and it contains interesting varieties - two types of Muscat and Kokur. A honeyed and interesting wine with a rich history.

Many have heard about the Black Doctor wine, which has been made here since 1933 from the local grape of the same name. The name is associated with an interesting story about a French doctor who practiced wine therapy in the fight against cholera. This wine is somewhat reminiscent of port wine, but with a truly Crimean aftertaste!

I must say that in recent years, many new brands, manufacturers, brands have appeared in Crimea. It is not easy to sort through them, but some young wineries deserve no less attention than factories with history. For example, the first wines from the young estate of Alma Valley appeared only in 2015, but they have already been titled and awarded high awards at many world exhibitions and competitions.

In any case, you can choose your ideal Crimean wine only by trial, and we want you to avoid mistakes! May all your enogastronomic experiments be successful, and Crimean wines become your favorite drinks in your home wine cellar!