Country: Bulgaria Region: Bessa Valley Vintage: 2016 Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot Colour: Red Style: Dry Producer: Enira Description: Count Stephan von Neipperg, owner of several famous Bordeaux properties, including Châteaux Canon La Gaffelière and La Mondotte, sought out the Bessa Valley where the wonderful clay-limestone soils showed him the potential to make great wines. In the shadow of the dramatic Rhodope Mountains, these soils provide the structure, strength and minerality that allows Stephan to create wonderful wines that are full of power and elegance. The strong presence of limestone in the soil is very similar to that in Saint Emilion, which is why the particular area was chosen. By 2005 the winery had planted 140 Ha of vineyards - 55％ of Merlot, and equal amounts of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The Bessa Valley has a continental climate, with no influence from the Black Sea. The average temperature range between -3℃ and 1℃ in Winter, and between 30℃ and 32 ℃ in Summer.  The vineyards are located on a gentle slope, with an altitude of between 150m and 210m. Tasting Note: This wine shows a deep purple colour.  The nose explodes with vanilla and menthol aromas, followed by strong blackberry and raspberry nuances. The mouth is starting with a round attack, followed by some structured woody tannins and a red fruits in the middle. This wine is ending with an amazing balance between its 12 month wood ageing and the perfect ripeness of its harvested grapes. Food Matches: Red Meat / Casseroles / Pasta