Central Anatolia is a region in central Turkey. The largest city in the region is Ankara. The most common white grape is Emir and the most common reds are Kalecik Karasi and Papazkarasi. Emir can be used for both still and sparkling wines, both as varietal wines or in blends with Narince and/or Sultana. Emir is noted for its capability to make high quality crisp, delicate wines. Narince is a high yielding white grape that is commonly used for table wine production. It contributes fruit notes to blends. Sultana (Sultaniye) was named for the Ottoman sultans. It has been so widely planted throughout the world that its origin is unknown. This grape is much more commonly known in the US as Thompson Seedless grapes (the grapes that are dried and used to make raisins). These grapes are fairly neutral in flavor but can be used to add sugar to the final blend.
The wine I drank this week was a 2023 Kavaklidere Çankaya that is a blend of 35% Narince, 35% Emir and 30% Sultana. Sevda Tunali And and Cenap And married in 1928 then opened Kavaklidere Winery in 1929. It has been producing wine since and was the first private producer in Turkey. It is one of the largest wineries in Turkey. This wine is pale lemon and displays intense aromas of lemon peel, white grapefruit, orange peel, green pear, green apple, lime zest and wet stone. There is a bright acidity that balances the fuller body. It is dry with a moderate level of alcohol. The intensity of the fruit is more pronounced on the palate and has a longer finish. This is a refreshing wine that makes a great aperitif, pairs with seafood or chicken, or could be enjoyed with a cheese plate.
-TheLooseTannin
A Trip Around the World of Wine in 52 Weeks 