Bulgaria: Vine and Wine Sectors Update
In 2013 and 2014 Bulgaria’s vine and wine sectors began to stabilize and show growth after years of decline. While vineyards area declined moderately in 2013, excellent yields led to 21% growth in vine grapes production and 37% more wine output of very good quality. Continued investment in new wineries and vineyards supported further commercialization in the sector. In 2014, however, unusually cool and rainy weather from the spring to the fall caused lower yields, quality and production at a higher cost due to increased plant protection expenses. Preliminary estimates for grapes production are for about 200,000 MT-220,000 MT, and wine at 120 million liters, a decline of 35% over 2013.
