Located in the picturesque village of Tsarev Brod, nestled between the historic Bulgarian capitals of Pliska and Veliki Preslav, Tsarev Brod Winery has become a beacon of quality in the region. Founded in 2001 by Ivan Ivanov and his family, the winery began with the planting of the across 27 hectares. In 2015, a state-of-the-art winery was established adjacent to the vineyards, ensuring that only the freshest grapes are processed. Known as the "home of white wine," this area boasts a rich diversity of grape varieties and exceptional wine quality.

Tsarev Brod Winery exclusively produces wines from its own vineyards, which span 400 acres in the Shumen area. The combination of fertile soil and favorable climate creates the perfect environment for growing premium grapes. The dedicated team of specialists in the winery meticulously crafts each wine, focusing on every detail to ensure excellence. The topsoil, rich in black earth, supports a variety of grapes, including Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Traminer for white wines. For red wines, Evmolpia (a cross of Mavrud and Merlot), Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc are utilized, while Rosé wines are crafted from Pinot Noir, Evmolpia, and Pinot Gris.

The Danube Plain is a large wine region covering northern Bulgaria, stretching from the foothills of the Balkan Mountains to the banks of the Danube River. The landscape is mostly flat or gently rolling, and the climate is continental, with hot, dry summers and cold winters. The Danube and its tributaries play an important moderating role, helping to reduce temperature extremes and extending the growing season. However, summer drought and occasional spring frost are common viticultural challenges and, depending upon the varietal planted, can require careful vineyard management.

The soils are predominantly loess and chernozem (black earth), rich in nutrients and capable of retaining water, although there are also areas of sandy and clayey soils that provide good drainage and lower vigour. This diversity allows a wide range of grape varieties to flourish.

Both local and international grapes are planted. Indigenous reds such as Gamza and Rubin perform well, alongside Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Among the whites, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and the local Dimyat are important. Key growing areas include Vidin, Pleven and Ruse.

Riesling is one of the world’s most esteemed white grape varieties, originating in Germany’s Rhine region during the 15th century. Celebrated for its purity of expression, Riesling thrives in cool climates and is known for its remarkable balance of acidity, aromatic intensity, and ageing potential.

Viticulturally, Riesling is a hardy, late-budding vine well-suited to steep, well-drained slopes. It ripens slowly, allowing it to develop vibrant acidity and a complex flavour profile. The grape is highly expressive of terroir, producing distinctive wines based on soil type, climate, and winemaking style.

Germany remains Riesling’s spiritual home, particularly in regions like the Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz. It is also widely grown in Alsace (France), Austria (notably in the Wachau and Kamptal), Australia’s Clare and Eden Valleys, and the Finger Lakes and Washington State in the USA. In each of these regions, Riesling produces wines of great character and diversity.

Riesling styles range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, including sparkling and late-harvest versions. Classic flavours include green apple, lime, white peach, and jasmine, often with mineral or petrol-like notes as the wine ages. Its naturally high acidity makes it an excellent partner for a wide range of foods, including spicy cuisine and aromatic dishes.