Born & raised in Struma Valley, Pavel Gramatikov a Mechanical Engineering major started Rupel Winery In February of 2016. The initial batch of Rupel wines crafted from the harvest in their very own vineyards are from 2015, whereas the estate has been growing vineyards since 2005. The vineyards of Rupel are situated on the slopes of Durulovista surroundings in the villages of Harsovo and Dolno Spanchevo In Southwestern Bulgaria. It’s a beautiful landscape here. Rupel is nestled in the valley with a dominating parameter formed by Pirin, Belasitsa, Maleshevo and Ograzhden mountains. Rupel vineyards grow a wide varieties of local and international grapes such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Melnik55, Marselan, Pinot Noir, Rubin, Tamianka, Viognier, Sandanski Misket and many more.
Rupel’s chateau reveals a mesmerizing views of its vineyards with cool Aegean breeze blowing from neighboring Greece coast. Their tasting room can comfortably seat up to 40 people and offers a great opportunity to host corporate conferences and team building events. Their tasting room is open during regular business hours and wine tasting includes guided tour of the cellar and a walkthrough of the vineyards.
Being a relatively young winery, Rupel has established a firm footprint in the region. Today Rupel vineyards produce over 250 tons of grapes right out of the gates and the winery has the capacity to craft 500,000 liters of wine every year. This is another win for Bulgarian wine industry particularly for the winemakers of Struma Valley. Bulgarian wines are rapidly catching up with French & Italian wines at a price point and quality that is most appealing for young wine lovers. Rising export and steady awareness of Bulgarian wines is an indication that Bulgaria is back on the map and the proof is now in the pudding.
Great work Rupel Winery for tackling viticulture diligently and lifting the brands of Melnik in collaboration with Struma Valley Vintners. Wine lovers across world are getting inquisitive about Bulgarian blends. Have a great holiday season and keep producing great wines. Nazdrave!! (Cheers In Bulgarian)
Photos: Rupel Winery, Struma Valley Bulgaria
