Crimean wines: peculiarities of growth
Unique taste qualities and useful properties of Crimean wine are explained primarily by the geographical specifics of this region. The fact is that in a small area of the peninsula there are several microzones, the location of which allows you to grow different varieties of grapes. For example, the abundance of the sun and the mild climate of the Southern coast contribute to the maturation of grapes used to make dessert wines, Muscat, Madeira, sherry and port. But the best dry table wines of Crimea are obtained from a vine growing in river valleys: Chernaya, Kacha, Alma, Belbek. Unique table varieties are grown in the steppe part of the peninsula, the fertile soils of which contribute to high yields and industrial winemaking.
In addition, in the Crimea grow both aboriginal varieties of grapes, and selection and imported elite vines, many of which are not found anywhere else in the post-Soviet space.
The best Crimean producers of wine products
Resting on the peninsula, most tourists have the impression that they make wine in almost every house. In the markets, beaches and even stops, the local population offers to try "real" Crimean wine. But we strongly recommend that you refrain from such experiments, which often end with getting acquainted with the nearest medical posts, and give preference to the wines and cognacs from proven producers.
So, among the best winemaking economies of the Crimea, called the Institute of Viticulture and Wine-Making "Magarach", you can note 7 brands:
- Massandra
- Magarach
- "New World"
- Koktebel
- Inkerman
- "Sunny Valley"
- The Golden Balk
It is these producers, according to the results of special studies, make wine in whole or in part from grape must, without the use of powdered raw materials and harmful chemical additives. In addition, they monitor the quality of their products and provide a high level of protection against forgery. Buy the above brands on the peninsula can be in both branded stores manufacturers, and in ordinary supermarkets.
The best Crimean wines
If we talk about the best wines of the Crimea, then among a huge variety of products, everyone, guided by personal taste preferences, will be able to find a drink to his liking. But there are also recognized elite varieties that deserve world awards and the love of generations of connoisseurs of this noble drink. For example, one of the most famous sparkling Crimean wines is the creation of Prince Lev Golitsyn, who at one time was in charge of the winery "New World", - "Novovorets champagne." Having received the grand prix in the distant 1900 at the World Exhibition in Paris, this champagne was the pride of Lev Sergeyevich. Renamed later in the "Soviet", sparkling wine became a kind of symbol of the triumph of domestic winemakers. Unfortunately, today the vine, from the grapes of which the unique "Novosvetskoe" was produced, is lost forever and the modern "Soviet" recipe does not have anything in common with Golitsyn.
But we still have another princely masterpiece produced by Massandrovsky winery, "The Seventh Heaven of Prince Golitsyn." According to legend, Lev Sergeyevich accidentally tried the contents of the barrel into which the waste material and substandard had been drained. Golitsyn liked Golitsyn's bright taste of the drink so that for the next 15 years of his life he spent on restoring a unique recipe that includes many ingredients. Thanks to such dedication and perseverance, today we can enjoy the unique honey taste of this white dessert wine with the aromas of peach and quince.
The connoisseurs of strong red wine should definitely try another famous Crimean masterpiece - "Black Doctor". This drink is a kind of brand TM "Solnechnaya Dolina". Its name is due to its healing properties. "Black Doctor" is rich in B vitamins, organic acids, biologically active substances. Due to what this drink in moderate doses positively affects the work of the heart and blood vessels, improves blood circulation, raises the general tone. According to the legend, the main grape variety used in its production was taken out by a doctor who lived in the Sun Valley. He was known as a real healer and a skilled winemaker. And the "black" wine was named because of its dark, almost black, ruby shade. As for the bouquet, the "doctor" has a very rich and harmonious taste. It notes: chocolate, vanilla, cream, prunes, pears, mulberries.
Wine tourism in the Crimea
Of course, the aforementioned varieties are elite wines that can not afford to all the guests of the peninsula. The average tourist is interested in more affordable, but from this no less qualitative, Crimean wines, which are so famous for this southern region.
The most famous wine brand among visitors is "Massandra". The wine of this producer is rich in natural taste and mild effect. The main specialization of the plant is sweet dessert and strong dessert wines. For example, Massandra port (red and white), sherry and Madera enjoy constant popularity among tourists.
No less famous is the Crimean brand "Magarach", located on the basis of the Institute of Viticulture and Wine-making. Its products are presented as elite vintage samples, as well as table and dessert wines for a wide range of consumers. Produces "Magarach" and sparkling wines, cognacs, the quality of which is noted by specialists of different countries of the world. Among the most sought-after products of this brand are dry and semisweet wines, completely conveying the light character of the solar peninsula.
If we talk separately about wine tourism, then in the Crimea it is quite developed. A rare excursion route does without visiting the tasting rooms with wine. Especially popular are specially organized for tourists visits to famous wineries "Massandra", "Inkerman", "Magarach". There are wines in the Crimea and museums, the most famous of which is in Evpatoria.
How to distinguish real Crimean wine from forgery?
First, it is necessary to buy wine products exclusively in branded stores and supermarkets. Remember, no self-respecting brand does not sell its products in the markets and from "under the counter." This is explained by the need to properly store bottles with a noble drink, non-observance of which can significantly affect the taste and color of the product.
Secondly, branded products have several degrees of protection. For example, "Magarach" spills wine only in characteristic bottles with a convex bilateral name of the trademark and a relief concave bottom. Information on wine protection can be found on the official website of the manufacturer.
Thirdly, carefully study the appearance of the product. The color of the glass of a good bottle of wine should be clear, but dark, to keep its contents from direct sunlight. In addition, a quality drink is always clogged with a natural cork with the logo of the manufacturer. If the logo on the plug is missing, then before you is a substandard, which should be sold at a lower price.
And fourthly, quality wine can always be distinguished by its color and smell. You can argue that to taste. But, alas, the quality of modern flavor additives can easily deceive not experienced sommelier. But to achieve the correct color, which is characteristic of a particular grade of wine or combinations of varieties, even with dyes is quite difficult. Not to mention the smell: a real drink has a pleasant aroma of wooden barrels with soft notes of fruit. While counterfeits are "fragrant" with alcohol.
We hope that the information you have calculated and advice on choosing high-quality products will help you navigate the vast assortment of Crimean wines. And the next time you visit this amazing peninsula, you will surely take with you a bottle of Crimean leaves that will remind you of this unique place!