Libera Estate Keratzuda Orange Wine 2022

Alcohol: 14%

Grape(s): 100% Keratzuda

Localization: Melnik Region, Bulgaria

Tasting Notes: Full-bodied and fresh, with well-integrated tannins and a rich, concentrated palate, Libera Orange Keratsuda is a must-try for orange wine fans and those just starting their orange journey.

Notes: This delightful orange wine is made of Keratsuda – a rare Bulgarian white grape native to Struma Valley. A grape with an ancient history, Keratsuda has been flying under the radar for a few decades. However, the team at Libera Estate took the challenge to show the potential of this indigenous variety. Libera Orange Keratsuda was fermented on the skins for about 45 days and bottled unfiltered. The wine has a beautiful amber color and expressive notes of clementines orange peel, apricots and honey. These are complimented by hints of walnuts and almonds, typical for skin-contact wines.

The Domain: Libera Estate is a new project on Bulgaria's wine map. In 2013, wines with the Libera brand were vinified for the first time, relying mainly on local and a few international varieties. Their aim is to show the true face of Bulgarian wine by combining local age-old traditions with a contemporary look and modern technology.

The vineyards cover more than 350 acres in the villages of Hotovo, Lozenitsa and Zornitsa. They are located 9 km. from Sandanski and 6 km. from Melnik in an area known as wine-growing. The valley of the Struma River is an extremely interesting terroir, characterised by mild winters and hot summers, and the mountains that surround it on all sides are an important factor in the character of the wine of the region.

They have an exceptional varietal diversity. An important place is occupied by indigenous Bulgarian varieties such as Melnik 55, Melnik 82, Shiroka Melniška viza for reds and Sandanski misket and Dimyat for whites. Of the international varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah are grown.