At a glance

Producer

Clos Saffron

Region

Bulgaria, Thracian Valley

Grape variety

Mavrud

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$15-$25

Tasting profile

Ripe blackberry, plum, with herbal notes and subtle oak influence.

Evolution: Fruit will mature into developed tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and earth.

At peak: Complex integration of fruit and tertiary aromas with silky tannins.

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity, refreshing

Tannins

Medium-high, ripe and smooth

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years due to structured tannins and good acidity

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2022 to 2032

Current status

Approaching optimal maturity

Current condition

Balanced tannins with expressive dark fruit notes

2018 vintage Mavrud from Clos Saffron offers a good balance of ripeness and acidity, and the grape’s natural tannin structure suggests a 10-15 year drinking window. Current drinking window aligns with this timeline, with peak drinking expected 7-12 years from vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, game meats, rich stews, and aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — Allows tannins to soften and aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Uses sustainable farming practices including minimal use of chemicals, water conservation, and solar energy for winery operations

Clos Saffron operates with a moderate focus on sustainability through environmentally friendly vineyard management and energy use, but does not hold formal certifications. Packaging uses recyclable materials, and its proximity to distribution markets helps reduce transportation emissions.