WINE CULTURE

Grape arbors are found on homes across Bulgaria.

Grape arbors are found on homes across Bulgaria.

Traditional attire & dance on Bulgaria's wine holiday, Trifon Zarezan

Traditional attire & dance on Bulgaria's wine holiday, Trifon Zarezan

Ruins of the ancient city Serdica (1st - 6th c.) found below Bulgaria's modern capital, Sofia

Ruins of the ancient city Serdica (1st - 6th c.) found below Bulgaria's modern capital, Sofia

Driving around Bulgaria, you immediately notice how many homes have either a grape arbor or tiny vineyard attached. Home winemaking is a common practice and a point of pride here. Bulgaria even has a national holiday in February dedicated to winegrowing. And all of this has been going on for centuries...

Archeological evidence indicates that wine has been made in Bulgaria for 7,000 years. Perhaps the country's most famous winemakers, ancient Thracians were known to imbibe during religious ceremonies and celebrations.