Ultimate  Challenge

Wine Trend: Eastern European Wines

Eastern Europe has been making high quality wine for longer than its better known Western European neighbors. Because of tumultuous political borders and social turmoil, many of the regions were not able to focus on commercial winemaking and promotion until relatively recently. Luckily, many of the traditional winemaking techniques as well as grape varieties are alive and well and being passed down to younger generations.

2018's Ultimate Wine Challenge had nearly two dozen entries from Eastern European countries, many of which were high scoring and award winning wines. As countries like Kosovo, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Slovenia continue to enjoy relative stability, their wine industries are recouperating and turning out high quality wines. At the same time, international wine professionals are opening their minds and palates to the indigenous grapes and styles to learn more about the history of wine in Europe. 

While international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay are prevalent, there are also native grapes like Refosk, and Furmint that are being featured. As international sommeliers and consumers continue to drink wine from these countries with centuries of winemaking traditions, the quality, quantity, and diversity of offerings is sure to grow as well. 

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