Winemakers: Dimitar Kostadinov, Tatyana Stefanova, Dimitar Ivanov

Location: Parvomay, Bulgaria

Region: Thracian Valley

Founding Year: 2003

Vineyard Size: 120 hectares

Farming: Organic, dry-farmed (certified since 2013)

Soil: Predominantly clay-limestone

Topography: Foothills of the Rhodope Mountains

More information about Zagreus Winery here.

The Thracian Valley is the located in the central & southern region of Bulgaria. It is a valley situated between the Balkan Mountains and Sredna Gora, which run across central Bulgaria, and the Rhodope Mountains, which run across Bulgarian’s southern border with Greece. The climate is temperate continental with  Mediterranean influences, characterized by hot, dry summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall. The Maritsa River and its tributaries run through the valley, which supports temperature moderation and airflow. Historically, the Thracian Valley was covered in oak forests, known for their iron-oxide rich forest soils, named cinnamon forest soil after their distinct reddish-brown hue. Although some of these forests were cleared or fragmented due to agricultural and viticultural development, the unique cinnamon forest soils remain. Since ancient times, winemaking has thrived in the region and been an essential source of livelihood. The Thracian Valley is most famous for the indigenous grape variety Mavrud, as well as Pamid, Rubin, and Melnik. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Muscat Ottonel are among the common international varieties planted across the region.