• Bratanov Merlot & Syrah 'Quel Mariage' 2021


'Quel Mariage' between these 2 international varieties Merlot and Syrah. Wild fermentation with yeasts from our own vineyard. Located in South Sakar Mountain, overlooking the main Maritsa River (near Shishmanovo village, Harmanli municipality). This southeastern part of Thrace (Trakia) has been known for its quality wines for thousands of years. 

Vintage 2021: The 2021 vintage is one of the most balanced in recent years in Sakar. The spring and summer were marked by sufficient, well-distributed rainfall, positively impacting both quality and yields. Harvest took place later, under optimal phenolic ripeness while retaining excellent natural freshness.

This vintage also marked the start of targeted experiments with organic viticulture on selected parcels, combined with natural cover crops. 2021 is expected to rank among the best vintages since 2013, particularly for late-ripening varieties.

Winemaking: The new blend achieves harmony with an 80:20 ratio in favor of Merlot. The majority of the wine was aged for over 4 years in oak barrels of various sizes and origins, with the remainder in stainless steel. Extended bottle aging has softened and integrated the tannins, resulting in a well-balanced, harmonious wine with an appealing fruit-driven profile.

Our tasting notes: This is a bold, rule-breaking varietal blend, combining a Bordeaux variety (80% Merlot) with one from the Rhône Valley (20% Syrah). Deep garnet color. Aromas of ripe black fruits, leather, and smoked meat with spicy undertones. Full-bodied with a firm tannic structure. The palate reveals pronounced spice with notes of aronia, tobacco, leather, and musk. Long, refined finish with hints of dark chocolate and paprika.

Drinking well now, with excellent aging potential (2026–2036+).

Best with: game, duck, barbecue, lamb, matured cheeses, Bulgarian Moussaka with chopped meat.

Award:

  Winemaker: Bratanov winery 

  Region: Sakar, PGI Thracian Valley

   Grape: 80% Merlot, 20% Syrah ( hand picked) 

   Vintage: 2021

  Winemaking: 24 months, Syrah in old oak barrels, Merlot neutral vat only ferment and ripen. Wild fermentation both. Unfiltered.

  Maturity: Ready to drink, but can age and develop 2025-2036

  Closure: cork

      Alcohol: 14,5%

  Volume: 750 ml

  Serve: 16-18°C

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Bratanov Merlot & Syrah 'Quel Mariage' 2021

  • Brand: Bratanov winery
  • Product Code: Bratanov Merlot & Syrah 'Quel Mariage'
  • € 15.50

  • Ex Tax: € 12.81
  • Availability: In Stock

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Tags: Sakar, Thracian Valley PGI, Merlot, Syrah, Bratanov winery, red wine, 260