Bulgaria: Winemaking

Foreign investment and SAPARD funds have been used to fund winery renovations and the installation of stainless steel, temperature control, and modern technology across much of the industry. oak use is widespread, with leading producers usually opting for French oak, although some local oak is appearing now cooperage standards are better. Use of oak chips in older barrels is still common. Most wineries now have locally trained winemakers who have frequently travelled and gained international experience, although Michel rolland consults at Castra Rubra and Frenchman Marc Dworkin at Bessa Valley.