Broad-leaved Melnik is an ancient red grape variety native to Bulgaria’s Struma Valley and Melnik, Sandanski, and Harsovo. It is known for its bold, spicy character and rich history dating back to Thracian times. It produces medium – to full-bodied wines with flavors of ripe cherries, wild strawberries, black pepper, and tobacco, often developing leather and chocolate notes with age. Naturally rich in tannins and acidity, these wines can benefit from bottle aging.
Serving
16-18°C
Large / Universal
30-45 min
Food Pairing
Broad-leaved Melnik pairs beautifully with grilled meats, hearty stews, and Balkan-inspired dishes. Its spicy, earthy profile complements lamb kebabs, roasted pork, and game meats, while its high acidity balances rich, tomato-based sauces. Try it with slow-cooked beef or smoked cheeses for a regional pairing experience.
What to Look For?
Look for garnet hues with brick tones as it ages, aromas of dried red fruits, and a palate that combines fine spice with a silky yet structured finish.
Cellaring Potential
Best between 2–8 years of age. Gains complexity with notes of leather, cedar, and dried herbs over time.
Melnik Blending Partners
Shiroka Melnishka Loza is found solo and in complex blends, including:
If you enjoy Shiroka Melnishka Loza, try Melnik 55 or Nebbiolo for its earthy elegance or Pinot Noir for a lighter, floral-driven take.
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Discover More
Grape ID
Typical PDOs:
Harsovo, Lyubimets, Struma Valley
Soil-Climatic Zoning:
Melnik, Sub-Balkan, Rila-Rhodopes
Origin:
Bulgaria
Location:
Southwestern Bulgaria
Closest PGI:
Thracian Valley
Grape Color:
Noir
Grape Type:
Autochthonous
Note: Typical PDO: Specifies the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) where wines made from this grape variety are officially recognized according to their technical dossiers; Typical PGI: Identifies the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) regions where this grape variety is considered characteristic; Soil-Climatic Zoning: Indicates the connection to Bulgaria’s Soil-Climatic Zoning of 1935, confirming if the grape variety is traditionally grown in the designated PDO territory; Ampelographic Region: Identifies the ampelographic region based on Bulgaria’s historical Ampelographic Map.
Typical Grape Characteristics
Grape Sugars:
20% to 24%
Grape Acidity:
6g/L to 8g/L
Wine Alcohol:
12.5% to 14%
Note: The sugar and acidity levels of the grape syrup, as well as the wine alcohol contents are based on values observed in a typical region under optimal growing and vinification conditions.
Viticulture & Growing Conditions
Yield kg/dec:
1400 - 1700
Ripening period:
Oct 5 - Oct 31
Note: The yield and ripening period timeline are based on evidence from a typical region under optimal growing conditions. 10 dec. equals 1000 square meters, or 1 hectare.
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