Region 5 – Denizli wines

This region has a north west border with Izmir. However, it is inland from the Mediterranean, so, it does not benefit as much from the moderating effects which a coastal location has on a hot summer climate and warming influences on a cold winter.

The grape varieties cultivated in this region are very similar to Manisa. Like Manisa, they grow a lot of the Sultaniye grape. The 2 regions account for the majority of this specific variety grown in Turkey.

One of the main wineries in the region is Pamukkale. The winery was founded in 1962 by Fevzi Tokat. Their vines are planted at around 850 metres above sea level. The climate is similar to that experienced in the Napa Valley and the soil very much like that found in Bordeaux. The earth is moist with limestone and pebbles. They produce around 4 million litres of wine per annum using modern equipment and winemaking processes. As a result, their wines are internationally sought after, with 20% going annually to France and a similar percentage to Germany. They also export to The Netherlands, Austria, Denmark and the Far East.

Here are 3 wines from their catalogue.

Pamukkale Red AnforaRed – Anfora Cabernet Sauvignon

NOSE: Green pepper, tobacco, nuts and black fruits.

PALATE: A rich full bodied wine with nice rounded tannins and a long finish.

FOOD PAIRING: Grilled meats, braised beef with rich mushroom sauce, mature hard cheeses or tangy goats cheese.

SUMMARY: Made solely from the cabernet sauvignon grape. Do open an hour before serving. Worth finding and at around £8 to £10 a bottle, good value.

Pamukkale Red TrioRed – Trio

NOSE: Intense blackcurrant with hints of leather, oak and tobacco

PALATE: Black cherries balanced with soft tannins leading to a long finish that gives a pleasant bramble flavour

FOOD PAIRING: Grilled or roasted meats, game and mature hard cheeses

SUMMARY: An interesting blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes with the local Kalecik Karası has resulted in a quite unique style of wine. A big wine at 13.5% ABV but not a big price. This wine has won awards and can be bought for a modest £8 to £12 a bottle.

Pamukkale White MeridiesWhite – Meridies Narince/Sauvignon Blanc

NOSE: Citrus fruits such as lemon, pear, minerals, apple and slight asparagus notes with some vanilla and bread crust aromas.

PALATE: Medium bodied delivering pineapple flavours balanced with citrus acidity to give a rich first taste leading to a mineral palate-cleaning finish.

FOOD PAIRING: Crab, lobster and other seafood, grilled white fish and soft creamy cheeses

SUMMARY: A very interesting wine which blends indigenous grapes with Sauvignon Blanc, delivering great results. You will pay £12 to £15 a bottle but the experience is worth the investment.

Share on social media
Pin It