The vineyards are located at 250-330m above sea level, in the heart of one of the most renowned wine regions in Bulgaria, the Struma River Valley, near the village Harsovo. The slopes of the hilly terrain are mostly facing south. The climate is Mediterranean with constant breezes from the Aegean Sea during the day. At night cooler winds descend from the surrounding mountains causing a significant drop in temperature. The soil is sandy, with a high percentage of limestone. It has the yellowish color, typical for the region. The winemaking tradition in the Struma River Valley dates back to at least  3500 BC. Today the region is home to more than 10 renowned estates and wineries.

AYA’s vineyards are certified organic and also adhere to biodynamic practices. AYA plants soil-building legumes and grass mixes between the rows of vines, which helps with vine nutrition and erosion control by enriching the soil and increasing biodiversity.

The Melnik grape variety is the most famous indigenous grape in the region, known as a late-ripening, thick skinned variety with broad leaves. AYA’s Melnik vines are 50+ years old. The grape variety is known for distinct flavors of sour cherry, sweet tobacco, and Mediterranean herbs.