Turkey - White
2017 Gold: 1 Silver: 2 Bronze: 3 Commended: 9
2016 Gold: 3 Silver: 1 Bronze: 4 Commended: 5
As we surveyed the burning wreckage of this flight, it was hard not to turn to each other and ask ‘what the hell just happened?’ For several years, we’ve been watching Turkey’s march into the national consciousness, with wines of style and character. And then this… the smallest number of medals for four years.
Faults were part of it, but our tasters were somewhat bewildered by the range of styles on display, too. If in doubt, stick with local grapes, or at least blends mixing international and native grapes, would seem to be the feedback from the floor.
No coincidence, perhaps, that our only Gold was an always-popular Chardonnay/Narince blend. We like Narince…
FROM THE TASTING TEAMS
‘There were a lot of faults in this flight – it wasn’t enjoyable. The wines didn’t even get any better as the prices increased.’ Guillaume Mahaut, ETM Group
‘Turkey should focus on its native varietals, not on international blends.’ Annette Scarfe MW, team leader
‘There is potential in Turkey. I thought the flight was better last year though – this year was disappointing.’ Andre Luis Martins, Cavalry & Guards Club
‘It was a squeeze to get two medals. There was nothing vulgarly oxidised, but there’s an issue with use of sulphur. In terms of grapes, some looked Sauvignon-esque, some looked Gewürzy. If I never find out what they were, my life will carry on as normal.’ Simon Woods, team leader
‘Overall, I was extremely disappointed. They lacked body and richness, and I really struggled to find something I liked. It’s a shame.’ Christopher Delalonde MS, Bleeding Heart Group