Tucked away in Ongar in Essex is Wine of Course, an independent wine merchant with some interesting quirks including Bulgarian wines and a great selection of Armagnacs and a great by-line of “Every Sip Counts”
Our goal is to source top quality wines from around the world from producers who are individualistic, small (but perfectly formed), and who represent the best that their respective regions have to offer.
Beyond merely selling the stuff, we’re firm (and fervent) believers in educating the world at large about the life-affirming joys of wine. To these ends we work tirelessly at informal, educational, and enjoyable wine courses and expert-led tastings.
Founders of Wines from Bulgaria we are proud of our huge range of top Bulgarian wines and projects with Bulgarian wineries.
Every Sip Counts.
The Bulgarian wines offered look interesting with both familiar and local traditional grape varieties on offer -.e.g. the 2005 ZELAS Cabernet Franc (Strouma Valley, Bulgaria)“Full and robust with wild black cherries, bitter chocolate and spice mingling on the tightly knit palate. Long and firm finish. It’s a beast on the open. Be warned!”
One of Bulgaria’s strengths is the mix of indigenous and international grape varieties that are currently under cultivation. While far from an exhaustive list, we’ve included some of the most important ones in our opinion for quality wines.
International varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, Chardonnay) are doing well, creating wines that are both recognizable on the global market and able to deliver the flavours that many traditional wine drinkers around the world are looking for, all at good value and quality for the price.
Many local grape varieties have also been retained, some more suited to quality wines than others, but the best capable of outstanding wines of distinction and personality.
Gamza, Mavrud, Melnik, Misket, Dimiat. The Georgian-originating white grape, Rkatsiteli, is also common.
Well-designed website with good navigation, tasting notes, search options, online ordering – supplemented by a real shop and wine club and tasting courses. Also goes under the name of Ongar Wines and Highgate Wines
Wine of Course (Essex), 153 High Road, Ongar, Essex CM5 9JD, T: 01277 365 116 E: ongar@wineofcourse.com
