The Minister of Agriculture and Food, Dr. Georgi Tahov, trimmed a newly planted vine at the Peristera Fortress and opened the wine festival.
"This is a celebration that honors the work of winegrowers and expresses our respect for the Bulgarian wine tradition," said Minister Tahov, emphasizing that the event is a great opportunity to celebrate both the qualities of Bulgarian wines and the efforts of local producers. He wished everyone a fertile new year and emphasized the good performance of native varieties. "Bulgaria is a recognized destination for wine tourism, and our wines are increasingly popular all over the world," the Minister said, adding that "the winemaking sector is increasingly establishing itself as key to the country's economy."
In 2024, wine production was over 67 million liters, and exports amounted to about 30 million liters. This is also happening thanks to the support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food under various programs to support the sector.
First place in the competition for the best young domestic red wine was won by Ventsislav Zonev, who also became the king of wine for the 2024 vintage. Second prize went to Dimitar Likotodov, and third went to Ivan Mitev.