Istanbul: Wine Tasting with Indigenous Local Varieties

Exploring Turkey’s Unique Wine Heritage in Istanbul

Imagine wandering into a cozy, modern wine bar in Kadköy, Istanbul, where the air is filled with the scent of indigenous grapes and the lively chatter of fellow wine enthusiasts. For around $50 a person, you can spend a couple of hours tasting six low-intervention wines crafted from Turkey’s rare native grape varieties. Led by a knowledgeable sommelier, this experience offers a compelling glimpse into Turkey’s natural wine movement, which is rapidly gaining attention among connoisseurs worldwide.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic, indigenous grapes—from the wild-ferment Karasakz to the skin-contact Hasandede—and the chance to savor old vine wines that carry centuries of history. The intimate setting, limited to just 24 seats, creates a friendly atmosphere where you can ask questions and genuinely connect with the wines and the stories behind them.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that no food is served during the tasting, so you might want to plan to eat beforehand or afterwards. This tour is ideal for travelers who are passionate about natural wines, curious about Turkey’s lesser-known grape varieties, and eager for a relaxed, educational experience in a vibrant neighborhood.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Indigenous Varieties: Focuses on rare Turkish grapes like Hasandede, Karasakz, and Kanlkara.
• Authentic Natural Wines: Emphasizes low-intervention, regenerative farming practices.
• Intimate Setting: Only 24 seats for a personalized experience.
• Educational: Connects wines to terroir, legends, and farming methods.
• Cost-Effective: $50 for six flights, including service and tax.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full refund options if canceled 24 hours in advance.

A Closer Look at the Istanbul Wine Tasting Experience

Location and Setting: The Heart of Kadköy

The journey begins in Kadköy, a lively district known for its artistic vibe and diverse culinary scene. The meeting point is marked by a contemporary steel statue in front of WAYANA Wine Bar, a spot celebrated for its extensive collection of over 500 labels from 142 local wineries. Walking into WAYANA, you are greeted by a cozy, modern space with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for wine tasting.

The bar’s focus on indigenous Turkish grapes makes it stand out among many wine bars in Istanbul. Its dedication to showcasing wines from lesser-known regions offers a taste of Turkey’s natural wine frontier, away from the more commercial, mass-produced options.

The Tasting: Exploring Native and Old Vine Wines

During the tasting, you’ll sample six flights of 50 ml each—a perfect amount to keep your palate fresh and your curiosity piqued. The selection typically includes three white wines and three reds, each crafted from rare grapes. Among the highlights are a skin-contact Hasandede, which offers a textural and aromatic experience, and a wild-fermented Karasakz with lively, unpredictable notes.

You’ll also get to taste a Kanlkara from the wild and an amber Karku, a wine that undergoes skin contact with extended maceration, giving it a complex, layered profile. These wines are produced with minimal intervention, emphasizing terroir and regenerative farming practices, which the sommelier enthusiastically explains, connecting the wines to their land and history.

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What Makes This Experience Special

One of the biggest draws is the personalized storytelling. Emilie, a previous guest, notes, “Interesting wines in an exciting area,” underscoring how the guide’s insights make the tasting more engaging. The small size of the group fosters questions and conversation, allowing you to deepen your understanding of Turkey’s native grapes and natural wine ethos.

On top of that, because WAYANA serves over 500 labels, the selected wines are carefully curated to showcase the best native varieties and old vine wines, giving you a genuine taste of Turkey’s wine diversity.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour includes service and tax, with no additional food served, which means you’ll want to plan accordingly—either enjoy a meal before or afterward in Kadköy. You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if your plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to explore natural wines from a country with a vast grape heritage. It’s also suitable for those interested in sustainable, regenerative farming practices and indigenous varieties. If you enjoy small, intimate tastings with storytelling and learning, this tour hits the mark.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At just $50, the tasting provides a rich educational experience—covering rare grapes, natural wine techniques, and the concept of terroir—paired with the chance to sample wines you won’t find elsewhere. Considering the extensive collection at WAYANA and the expertise of the guide, this is a cost-effective way to deepen your understanding of Turkey’s wine scene.

While no food is included, the focus on native, low-intervention wines delivers authenticity and a sense of discovery, making it worthwhile for curious travelers. The small group size and relaxed atmosphere ensure you won’t feel rushed, and you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for Turkey’s diverse viticultural landscape.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates natural, sustainable wines and wants to explore Turkey’s indigenous grape heritage, this tour offers a memorable, authentic experience. It’s particularly well-suited for wine aficionados looking for something off the beaten path and eager to learn the stories behind each glass.

However, if you prefer a more traditional wine tour with food pairings or larger groups, this might not be your best fit. But for those craving a cozy, educational, and truly local wine experience, this tasting at WAYANA is a smart choice.

For travelers curious about Turkey’s natural wine scene, it offers an accessible, engaging introduction that adds depth to your Istanbul visit. Pair it with other cultural or culinary activities in the city, and you’ll have a well-rounded experience of Turkey’s vibrant and diverse wine culture.

FAQs

Is food included in the wine tasting?
No, the tour does not include food. You might want to eat beforehand or plan to enjoy local dining in Kadköy after the tasting.

How many wines will I taste during the tour?
You will sample six different low-intervention wines, each about 50 ml, which is enough to appreciate the flavors without overwhelming your palate.

Can I book the tour in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for guests over 18 years old.

What types of wines will I try?
Expect three whites and three reds, including wines made from indigenous grapes like Hasandede, Karasakz, Kanlkara, and amber Karku.

What makes this wine tour unique?
The focus on Turkey’s native grape varieties and natural winemaking practices, along with an intimate setting and educational approach, set it apart from typical wine tastings.

In essence, this Istanbul wine experience offers a chance to taste something truly different—wines born from Turkey’s hidden viticultural treasures—and learn about their stories in a friendly, relaxed environment. It’s a highlight for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of natural wine and Turkey’s indigenous grape heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: