Emir

Emir is an ancient indigenous grape variety used for making wine in the Eastern Mediterranean, mostly in Turkey. It is a white variety with a medium to high acidity level and a distinct green aroma.

Emir is known for its pale yellow colour and greenish tinge. It typically has aromas of green apple, citrus and pear and a hint of herbs. On the palate, the wine is light-bodied with a crisp acidity and a mineral finish.

Emir is mainly cultivated in Turkey and some parts of Syria, Lebanon and Azerbaijan. Emir is a vigorous variety and is usually grown on soils that are stony and poor. The vine ripens late. It is a high yielding variety, producing wines that are best enjoyed when young. The winemaking techniques used with Emir are similar to those used with other white grapes. The grapes are usually crushed, pressed and fermented in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures. In Turkey, Emir is mainly used to make light and fresh, everyday white wines. Emir is a versatile food wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is often served with seafood, grilled vegetables and cheese. It is also a good choice for lighter dishes such as risotto and pasta dishes.

The name "Emir" translates into "ruler" or "command".