Exploring Çal, Turkey’s Hidden Wine Paradise

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Wine Trail

If you’re a wine enthusiast and love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Çal, a picturesque district in southwest Turkey, should be on your radar. While it might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Turkish wine, Çal is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Çal’s newest wine trail, where the history of winemaking dates back centuries, and a new generation of winemakers is determined to put Çal on the global wine map.

A Historic Region of Wine

Turkey has a rich history of winemaking, with evidence of wine production dating back a staggering 7,000 years. Despite being the world’s sixth-largest grape producer, the country’s presence in the global wine market has been relatively modest, with wine consumption per person being just a fraction of that in the UK. But that’s changing.

Çal, known for its stunning landscapes of olive orchards and melon farms, is responsible for a remarkable 40% of all Turkish wine production. Families in Çal have been cultivating vines for generations, with some boasting a viticultural heritage spanning seven centuries.

In the past, grapes in Çal were mainly used for raisins, molasses, and a bit of wine. But as the region’s winemakers have come to realize, wine is the lifeblood of Çal, and it deserves more attention.

The Rise of Çal’s Winemakers

One family that embodies this transformation is the Kuzu family. Their winery, Kuzubağ, has been open for just three years, but it’s already making waves among wine enthusiasts in Turkey and beyond. Their Öküzgözü-Shiraz 2021 and Chardonnay 2022 have won gold medals at prestigious international competitions, and Aslı Kuzu, the youngest female winemaker in the country, is leading the charge.

However, changing the perception of a region isn’t a one-person job. In a collaborative spirit, Kuzubağ and three other wineries have joined forces to create the Çal Wine Route, offering vineyard tours and tastings.

The Çal Wine Route

The journey on the Çal Wine Route starts at Erdel, where you’ll witness grape harvest preparations in full swing. After touring the production lines, you’ll be invited to taste some of the finest wines, including a delightful ruby-colored variety made from the local Çal Karası grapes. The aromas of strawberry and cherry are distinct, even amid the cheeses served with dried mulberries.

Küp, the oldest and largest producer on the route, welcomes you with a rich history dating back to 1959. Their museum showcases the ancient Roman amphoras, which were once used for oil and wine, found buried in their fields. Hasan Çağlar Altıntaş, a third-generation winemaker, proudly carries on this legacy.

Lermonos, known for its manager’s tango and tennis skills, is the next stop. While wine culture is a significant part of Çal, Lermonos takes it a step further, hosting jazz events and tango nights. As Melih Karaer, the manager, humorously points out, winemaking is becoming cool again, and girls are even more attracted to boys in the business.

The journey comes full circle as you return to Kuzubağ. Enjoy a delicious croque-monsieur while Aslı and Seray discuss labels for next year’s wines. And just like a loyal companion, resident feline Misket wags her tail outside the tasting room’s glass door, reminding you that sunsets at Kuzubağ are a tradition worth cherishing.

Beyond Wine: Exploring the Region

While Çal’s wine trail is a highlight, the region offers more to explore. Just an hour’s drive away, you’ll find Pamukkale, a UNESCO-listed natural wonder with its iconic watery terraces. Nearby, the ancient Roman town of Hierapolis boasts well-preserved ruins and even a pool believed to be where Cleopatra bathed.

Laodicea, a Roman town from the 3rd century BCE, is another nearby treasure with impressive ruins, including marketplaces, amphitheaters, and workshops. The Apollon Lairbenos temple, dedicated to a local version of the god Apollo, sits on the northern hills of Çal, offering a perfect spot to enjoy local wine at sunset.

How to Get There and Where to Stay

Getting to Çal is convenient. Turkish Airlines flies from London to Denizli via Istanbul, with flight times averaging around 7 hours and 30 minutes. From Denizli Çardak Airport, it’s just a scenic one-hour drive to Çal, where you can explore the vineyards at your own pace. Car rental options are available at the airport.

While Çal itself doesn’t have hotels, staying in the neighboring Denizli is a great option. The Park Dedeman Hotel offers comfortable rooms from £55, room only.

Çal is a hidden treasure for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its rich winemaking heritage and picturesque landscapes, it’s a destination that deserves more attention. So, if you’re in search of new wine experiences and a taste of Turkey’s vibrant history, Çal’s wine trail is an adventure waiting for you. Cheers to Çal and its exceptional wines!

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