Vinkara Wines of Turkey

I haven't had a Turkish wine since 2008, and I wasn't avoiding wines from the region, it's just that they never made it to my doorstep. Luckily, that turned around with a quartet of wines from Vinkara (the website seems to be down at the moment).

The modern Turkish wine industry is relatively young, though the country itself is the fourth largest producer of grapes in the world (most of those going to non-alcohol uses). Some estimate that there are over a thousand indigenous vinifera grape varieties in the country, and on this occasion I had the chance to try two grapes for the first time.

2012 Vinkara Narince
Black Sea (Tokat)
100% Narince
$15, 14% abv.

Light aroma of ripe peaches with low acidity and a mild body. Gentle finish.

2011 Vinkara Narince Reserve
Black Sea (Tokat)
100% Narince
$25, 13.5% abv.

Similar to the above, but with more floral notes, a bit more acidity, and a deeper body. Between the two I would definitely recommend the Reserve to go along with spicy grilled chicken.

2011 Vinkara Kalecik Karasi
Central Anatolia
100% Kalecik Karasi
$15, 13.5% abv.

Unfortunately this bottle was corked and was not able to be reviewed.

2010 Vinkara Kalecik Karasi Reserve
Central Anatolia
Kalecik Karasi
$25, 13.5% abv.

Certainly my favorite of the four, and reminiscent of a light table red from the South of France. Bright red cherry aromas and flavors with just a hint of tannins. Little elements of earth and oak as it opens up. Bring out the roast lamb and a tray of dolmas.

Note: These wines were provided as samples for review.