site.btaHotul Bunar: Two Decades of Organic Viticulture Backed by Local Commitment

BTA will present dozens of Bulgarian wineries in the New BG WINE Leads the Way series ahead of the 9th UN Global Conference on Wine Tourism, which will be hosted in Plovdiv. The forum is organized by the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the UN World Tourism Organization.

The Hotul Bunar winery in the village of Gorsko Novo Selo produces around 40,000 litres of wine each year but aims to boost production and expand its markets, co-owner Margarita Damyanova said on Saturday.

She noted that investment in the winery is complete. As a family business, her son and grandson also participate, and up to 30 local residents assist with pruning and harvesting, supporting the winery’s operations for nearly 25 years.

A substantial share of profits is reinvested in the production. This year, two large vessels were acquired, including one specifically designed for chilling white wines, along with new French barrels.

The project was founded in 2000 by Jan Ola Lindwe. Following his death in 2001, ownership passed to his wife Stefka Lindwe and her sister Margarita Damyanova. The 20-hectare vineyards were established in 2001 on land in Gorsko Novo Selo, with 7.6 hectares funded through the SAPARD programme. The vineyards are fully organic, and the grapes receive protected geographical indication status. The primary grape varieties are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, complemented by smaller parcels of Cinsault, Pamid, and Dimyat, all processed on site at the winery.

The boutique winery was established in 2007. To expand its range, it began producing white wines from the Aligote grape. The winery works with oenologist Stanimir Stoyanov.

Previously, the winery exported wine to Sweden, but now it primarily targets the domestic market. Production is evenly divided among red, white, and rose wines, all aged in French and Bulgarian oak barrels.

Wine brands take their names from the historic Hasara fortress and the Hotul Bunar area, where the vineyards are situated. This region holds historical importance due to its connection with an ancient Roman road and fortress, with some remains still preserved today.

The winery provides on-site tastings, featuring a courtyard gazebo for outdoor events and indoor accommodations during inclement weather. Vineyard tours are available upon request.