Vintage 2026 at Zornitza Family Estate | Notes from the cellar
By the end of September, most of our harvest in the Melnik region has been brought in. And what a harvest! We had not seen such a healthy and generous year for a long time. The vineyards – in brilliant shape, the grapes – clean and concentrated. Already at the juice stage, most varieties revealed something that is very rarely seen so early: typicity and character without compromise.
Some wines have already taken shape and are telling their story. Others are taking their first steps but hint at what is to come. And all of them, without exception, are astonishingly good.
The Viognier showed a dense, oily body and plenty of freshness, with pure, “bright” apricot.
Syrah – the star of the reds again this year, showed a typicity we have only seen in the best vintages in the estate's history. Violets, mulberry, black olive. At this early stage of its development it already “sounds” like a finished wine.
Petit Verdot on the other hand, is peppery, exuberant and has a character that does not hide its ambitions. Of course, it will have to wait, but in our view the wait will be worth it.
The Rubin has already taken shape and is perhaps among the most balanced wines we have made from this variety. Fruity, with an attractive nose and a deep taste of chocolate, without a trace of contact with wood. Elegant and direct at the same time.
And finally, the rising star of the 2026 vintage: Zinfandel (Primitivo). For the first time we are seeing floral notes of such intensity and delicacy. Evidently, as the vineyard grows older, something very interesting is happening…
We will soon announce which wines from the 2026 vintage will be the first to be bottled. And of course, the members of Zornitza Wine Society will be the first to get access to them. If you are not yet a member, you can submit your application here.
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