The Manisa region borders Izmir and shares a similar Mediterranean climate. It’s soil is also similar with a mix of clay loam, limestone and chalk. The grape varieties cultivated in the region are a similar mix of international and indigenous grapes to those grown in Izmir.
The region is famous for one particular grape, the Manisa Sultaniye (Sultana). Turkey is the world’s largest grower and exporter of this seedless variety. It is primarily a table grape and not widely used for wine production.
One of the major wine makers in the area is Yazgan. They are relative newcomers, but in a short period have built themselves a high reputation for providing wines of quality which are enjoyed internationally. They first planted vines in 2006 and had their initial harvest in 2008. They grow a mixture of French and Turkish grapes. Wines are stored in stainless steel vats initially. Then the premium wines are aged in oak before bottling. Today they produce up to 6 million litres of wine a year and can fill 6,000 bottles an hour. Let us look at 3 of the 12 wines in their catalogue.
Red – Boǧazkere
NOSE: Dark fruits and black pepper.
PALATE: A big tough wine with strong tannins. Similar to the French Tannat style of wines.
FOOD PAIRING: Roast meats such as lamb, beef and venison, strong well hung game such as pheasant, duck in black cherry sauce, mature hard tangy cheeses and soft tangy goat cheeses.
SUMMARY: The Boǧazkere grape produces a style of wine that is not for everybody, with its high tannins. It must be opened an hour before drinking so the tannins can soften and allow the fruit flavours to come through. When drunk with the food pairings I have chosen it works, but is not a wine to savour on its own. Merchants have this wine on sale for £10 to £14 a bottle.
Red – Mahra Cabernet Sauvignon & Syrah
NOSE: Plum and blackberry with hints of oak and cloves.
PALATE: A pleasant big red with soft tannins and a hint of dried figs and toffee.
FOOD PAIRING: Beef, venison, pork casseroles, stews and pasta with rich sauces.
SUMMARY: Made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Not a typical wine from this blend and well worth finding. Has won a Decanter bronze level award twice. You will pay a modest £10 to £12 for a bottle.
White – Emir
NOSE: Green apples and flint.
PALATE: A good balance between the fruit and citrus flavours with a clean finish.
FOOD PAIRING: Grilled sardines and mackerel, meze, goats cheese and feta, or drink it on its own.
SUMMARY: Made from the local Emir grape. Make sure it is properly chilled before drinking. Merchants are selling this wine between £10 and £12 a bottle.
