Kadarka

Kadarka: Characteristics of the Eastern European Grape Kadarka is a red grape variety grown primarily in the Eastern European countries of Serbia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. It is known for its light coloured, light-bodied wines that offer a unique combination of bright fruit and savoury elements.

Kadarka is a black-skinned grape withmedium sized berry size. It produces light-coloured wines with relatively low tannins and a refreshing acidity. The aromas of the wines are dominated by red berries and cherries, with some herbaceous and spicy notes. On the palate, Kadarka has a juicy, fruity flavour, with red berries, spices, and herbs.

Kadarka is primarily grown in Serbia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. In Serbia, it is grown in the Vojvodina region, and in Bulgaria, it is mostly found in the Thracian Lowlands. In Hungary, Kadarka is planted in the Great Plains region and in Romania, it is grown in the Transylvanian region. Kadarka is a productive, late budding and ripening. It has good drought resistence but is sensitive to low winter temperatures and susceptible to botrytis bunch rot. In the vineyard, Kadarka is usually trained in a spur-pruned cordon system. In the winery, it is fermented in stainless steel tanks, with some producers aging the wines in oak barrels. Kadarka wines range from light-bodied and fruity to full-bodied and complex. In Serbia, the wines are usually light-bodied and fruity, with aromas of red berries and spices. In Hungary, the wines tend to be fuller-bodied, with intense aromas of red berries, herbs, and spices. In Romania and Bulgaria, the wines are usually medium-bodied and well-structured, with aromas of dark fruit, spice, and herbs. Kadarka pairs well with a variety of foods, such as grilled meats and vegetables, creamy sauces, and rich cheeses. It also pairs well with dishes featuring tomato sauces, mushrooms, and olives.

Kadarka is also known under the name Gamza in Bulgaria, where it is also widely planted.