Ep 205: The Wines of Ukraine: Indigenous Grapes & Modern Expressions with Sera Crow (Part 1)

Hello and welcome back wine friends! In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of Ukrainian wine with Sera Crow, a doctor of chemistry turned wine communicator and WSET Diploma holder. Born in Ukraine and now living in the UK, Sera shares her insights as a Ukrainian ambassador, highlighting the country’s unique grape varieties, winemaking traditions, and growing natural wine movement. We take a closer look at Odessa Black and Sukholimanskyi, two of Ukraine’s most famous grape crossings, as well as Telti-Kuruk, an ancient indigenous white grape with a history that spans thousands of years. Along the way, we also discuss unexpected varieties thriving in Ukraine, including Pinotage, Albariño, and Aligoté, and taste a biodynamic wine from an urban Ukrainian winery. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just curious about this emerging wine region, this episode is packed with discoveries you won’t want to miss.

If you want to skip ahead:

 

00.00: Sera Crow shares her journey and passion for Ukrainian wines.

05.00: The Evolution of Ukrainian Wine – From Soviet-era perceptions to post-2014 growth

07.00: The Impact of Crimea’s Occupation

08.00: Journey in the UK Wine Scene

10.00: The Rise of Ukrainian Wine Exports

11.00: Expanding Ukrainian Wine Presence Internationally - reaching the UK, EU, US, and Japan.

13.00: What Makes Ukrainian Wines Unique?

16.00: Notable Ukrainian Wineries and Wines – Spotlight on Beykush, Kolonist, and the rise of experimental wines like Pet-Nats and amphora-aged blends

17.00: A bordeaux blend to try: Kolonist Cabernet Merlot “Haut de gamme” 2020 Ukranian Wine Company £29

19.00: Sukholimanskyi (A cross between Chardonnay and Plavai) - a unique white grape variety being explored alongside Odessa Black - Ukraines Flagship grape

22.00: Conclusion – The bright future of Ukrainian wines and where to find them worldwide (find info at the bottom)

27.00: Skin Contact and Natural Wines in Ukraine – The impact of Georgian traditions, rising demand, and Ukraine’s experimental winemaking scene.

28.00: Ukrainian Biologist Craft Winery’s biodynamic approach and success with Aligoté

30.00: Impact of Climate Change on Ukrainian Vineyards

32.00: Biologist Aligoté 2021 Wine Tasting Notes Ukrainian Wine Company £24.50

34.00: A limited-edition wine bottled post-invasion with a patriotic blue-and-yellow label from Biologist - see HERE

38.00: Telti-Kuruk: Ancient Ukrainian Grape – A rare variety dating back to the 5th century

41.00: Historical Importance of Wine in Ukraine

43.00: Citron Magaracha - a Muscat-related crossing known for producing fragrant, Muscat-style wines

 

Please find link below to learn more about purchasing Ukrainian wine, depending on where you are in the world:

UK

Europe

USA

 

And follow Sera in Instagram HERE

 

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

 

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