Leave your centrally located Istanbul hotel by air-conditioned coach and head to Turkey’s beautiful Kirklareli region in the heart of historical Thrace. Enjoy the views of rural Turkey as you travel and hear interesting facts about Kirklareli’s wine-growing heritage and the Thracian peoples who first planted vines here in the 2nd century AD.

After around 2 hours, stop at Poyrali to stretch your legs and look around this sleepy village. Then, climb the scenic road to the acclaimed Chamlija Winery perched high at 2,790 feet (850 meters) above sea level in the Strandja mountains. Absorb the magnificent views as you taste a selection of its wines, made from the reisling, pinot noir and other grapes of its vineyards.

Next, continue to nearby Vino Dessera, a boutique winery situated on the ancient Thracian wine route between Kirklareli and the Aegean Sea. Sample some of its varieties, including its prized Sauvignon Cris, a creamy clone of Sauvignon Blanc, and sit down to a hearty lunch accompanied by unlimited wine! See the Itinerary for a sample menu.

After lunch, visit the Chateau Nuzun winery near the village of Cesmeli. Overlooking rolling hills of vineyards, this organic winery ages its wines in French oak barrels. Savor some of its signature wines — cabernet sauvignon, merlot, zinfandel and pinot noir — as your host explains their production and gives you tips on the art of wine tasting.

With your final tasting done, return to Istanbul where your tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel.