Mavrud

Mavrud, also known as Mavroudi in Greece, is a dark-skinned grape variety that originated in Bulgaria. The grape is primarily grown in the Asenovgrad region of southern Bulgaria, known for its West Thracian Valley. The vine is low-yielding and late-ripening, producing small, almost black grapes with thick skins. The grape's name, Mavrud, is derived from the Greek word "mavro" which means black, a fitting description for the inky colored wines it produces. These wines are known for their pronounced tannins, excellent acidity and a stewed-fruit flavor on the palate, giving a glycerol mouth-feel. Additionally, the wine has a herbal characteristic, providing a medicinal finish. Mavrud is not commonly found in pure form, as plantings are decreasing in Bulgaria in favor of more popular varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. In Greece, it is mostly blended with varieties such as Agiorgitiko, Limnio and Mavrotragano.