Wines Unspecified Kavaklidere - Prestige Boğazkere - 2018

Kavaklidere’s Cuvée Prestige Boğazkere 2018 hails from the South-Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey, an area known for its ancient winemaking tradition and unique indigenous grape varieties. This wine is crafted from the Boğazkere grape, renowned for yielding robust, deeply coloured reds with marked tannic structure and expressive character. The 2018 vintage is likely to showcase ripe black fruit notes—think black cherry, mulberry, and dark plum—underscored by hints of spice, tobacco, and perhaps a touch of earthiness, reflecting both variety and terroir. Maturation in oak may contribute subtle vanilla or mocha nuances, softening the tannins and adding layers of complexity.

South-Eastern Anatolia, Turkey's viticultural heartland, benefits from a continental climate: hot, dry summers and cold winters shape the growing season and favour the production of intensely flavoured grapes. The mixture of clay and limestone soils imparts minerality and depth to the wines. The region is one of the world’s oldest wine-producing areas, with a rich history stretching back millennia, which is evident in the character and individuality of wines like this Boğazkere.

Thanks to its structure and bold flavour profile, this wine pairs excellently with dishes featuring grilled or roasted red meats—lamb kebabs, beef stews or slow-cooked game make fine choices. Strong local cheeses, such as aged Kars kasar, and traditional Turkish köfte, also complement the wine’s intense tannins and persistent finish. For a regional pairing, consider ‘Ali Nazik’, a smoky aubergine and lamb specialty.

For optimal appreciation, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow the bouquet and texture to unfold, and serve at 16-18°C. This will bring out its intricate balance of fruit, spice, and structure, enhancing both the wine and your meal.