A set of six photographs from a visit at the Sevilen Winery, just outside Izmir in Turkey; a prime grape-growing region, Mediterranean climate an’ all.

“In 1942 after having discovered vineyards and winemaking in France, Mr Isa Guner, a first-generation immigrant from Bulgaria, founded his own winery in Izmir, Turkey. Understanding that there was outstanding natural potentiality in Turkey for wine production. Nowadays, the property comprises 160 hectares of vineyard and a first class restaurant, and is managed by the third generation of the Guner family.”

Sevilen Winery: Recommended Wines

The estate produces a whole gamut of wines – from a distinctively packaged, slightly sweet pink (in a heavy weight, unique bottle), labelled simply as ‘R’, aimed at a ‘specific market segment’ through to some serious, complex, red wines made from either international or local varieties.

In the UK the Sevilen Sauvignon Blanc 2011 [Adegga / Snooth] is readily available in M&S. It’s a punchy little wonder, more mineral and lime juice than gooseberry fruited, or cut grass and asparagus. Hints of herbs and a refreshing bite add to its interest.

The Sevilen range, however, is more extensive than just this single white so it is a shame they do not have more exposure. The 900 range, all made from ‘international’ grape varieties (Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and so on) are worth trying but it was the Plato range that really impressed. Of course these are the estates ‘icon’ wines (with prices to match) and mix the international with the local.

The Sevilen Plato Syrah/Okuzgozu [Adegga / Snooth] 2010 has plenty of potential for aging (there is a little Petit Verdot in the blend too) and a great robust character too coupled with a ripe spice and chocolate edge. The fruity, floral edge to the Sevilen Plato Kalecik Karasi 2011 [Adegga / Snooth] impressed in a Pinot Noir style.

The ‘cellar’ range is more immediately approachable with a Bogazkere-Okuzgozu being particularly noteworthy. Match with something meaty on a skewer for something traditionally Turkish. Finally the Sevilen Centum Syrah 2010 [Adegga / Snooth] was a superb wine. Plenty to get the palate excited with spice, pepper and plum-rich fruit.

Black and white photos? For a change… the light especially in the wine store seemed perfect for conversion to black and white, although I’ve allowed myself the whimsy of keeping a little destaturated red on the fire hose. And you can’t visit a winery without marvelling over their stainless steel…, especially in black and white.