Ever tried Turkish wines? If not, it’s about time to do so. On Turkey’s Aegean coast, the town of Urla is quietly raising its profile in the international wine scene. With a winemaking history dating back over 6,000 years, Urla was once a vital hub in the ancient Ionian city of Klazomenai. Today, it’s experiencing a renaissance, blending millennia-old traditions with cutting-edge innovation to produce wines that are gaining some acclaim.
Urla’s connection to wine stretches deep into antiquity. As early as the 6th century BC, Greek settlers introduced winemaking techniques that had evolved from even older Anatolian civilizations like the Hittites and Phrygians. Historical records suggest that Anatolian wines were traded to Italy and France centuries before those countries developed their own wine cultures. Notably, the Muscat grape, known for its sweet, floral profile, was believed to have originated from this region. Its modern Turkish descendant, Bornova Misketi, remains a signature varietal in Urla today.
Forgotten Grapes
Modern winemakers in Urla are bringing indigenous varietals like Urla Karası, Foça Karası, and Gaydura bak to life. Once nearly extinct, they are being carefully nurtured and reintroduced into production. This commitment to heritage not only preserves ancient flavors but also distinguishes Urla’s wines in an increasingly globalized market.
Tailor-Made Terroir
Urla’s climate is a winemaker’s dream. Long, hot summers are moderated by cool Aegean breezes, and mild, wet winters nourish the vines without stressing them. The region’s mineral-rich soils lend depth and complexity to the wines, while sustainable and chemical-free practices have become the norm. Many wineries have embraced gravity-flow systems to ensure gentle handling of grapes, resulting in wines of remarkable purity and elegance.
Rising Wine Tourism
Urla’s commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed. Wines from the region have begun to win awards at international competitions, positioning Urla as a rising star in viticulture. Meanwhile, the establishment of the Urla Vineyard Route (Urla Bağ Yolu) has transformed the area into a destination for wine lovers, complete with boutique wineries, scenic vineyard walks, and gourmet restaurants. Euphemistically referred to as the “Tuscany of Turkey,” Urla has become a sought-after destination for those seeking authentic wine experiences.
Leading Producers
Among the most celebrated names is Urla Winery, known for its commitment to both local and international varietals. Their flagship wines, like “Tempus”, a robust blend of Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, and “Nero,” combining Nero d’Avola and Urla Karası, showcase the versatility of the region.
USCA Winery takes a poetic approach, naming its wines after Shakespearean sonnets and working closely with French oenologist Antoine Bastide d’Izard to craft refined offerings. Bornova Misketi and Foça Karası feature prominently in their portfolio.
Urlice Vineyards, pioneers of the modern Urla wine movement since 1997, specialize in organic viticulture and oak-aged reds from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. Their vineyard experiences have made them a favorite among visiting wine enthusiasts.
Other notable players include MMG Winery, known for sustainable farming and night harvesting to preserve grape integrity, and HUS Winery, which fuses Turkish and Chilean traditions to produce elegant Syrah and Grenache wines.
Popular Wine Styles
Red blends dominate Urla’s wine scene, often marrying international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah with indigenous grapes such as Boğazkere and Urla Karası. These reds tend to be full-bodied, expressive, and rich in tannins, balanced by fresh acidity.
On the white side, wines crafted from Bornova Misketi, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc offer crisp, aromatic profiles perfect for the Mediterranean climate. Rosés are also gaining popularity, especially refreshing blends like Urla Winery’s “Serendias Roze,” made from Pinot Noir and Kalecik Karası.
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