Pasaeli 'Old Vine' Karasakiz 2023

Paşaeli is a small, forward-thinking Turkish winery led by Seyit Karagöz, working across several regions to showcase the country’s native grapes. The focus is on varieties like Karasakız, Kolorko and Çalkarası, grown in coastal and inland sites that bring both freshness and ripeness. Farming is careful and site-specific, while the cellar work stays light to keep the wines expressive and true to their origins. Paşaeli has become a key name in Turkey’s modern wine scene, offering vibrant, characterful bottles that highlight the diversity and potential of its indigenous varieties.

Turkey’s wine history dates back thousands of years to ancient Anatolian civilisations, making it one of the world’s earliest centres of viticulture. Hittite, Greek and Roman influences shaped early production, though it declined during the Ottoman period. Modern winemaking has re-emerged in recent decades, with a focus on native grapes and regional identity.

Kaz Dağları sits in northwest Turkey near the Aegean coast and is an emerging region gaining attention for quality focused winemaking. The area benefits from altitude, cooling sea breezes and a mix of granite and volcanic soils which help maintain balance and structure. Both international and local grape varieties are grown here including Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Syrah and indigenous grapes such as Karasakız and Kuntra. Producers are increasingly focused on low intervention approaches and careful vineyard work to express site. Kaz Dağları is building a reputation for precise well structured wines with a clear sense of place and growing confidence.