The short version: Cappadocia is one of the oldest wine regions on earth. The same volcanic tuff that forms the fairy chimneys makes good vineyard soil, and cellars are carved into the rock around Ürgüp and Göreme. Wineries like Turasan and Kocabağ pour reds and whites from native grapes – Öküzgözü, Boğazkere, Kalecik Karası, Emir and Narince – and most welcome visitors for a tour and tasting.
At a glance
| Grape | Style |
|---|---|
| Emir | Crisp, mineral white – Cappadocia’s signature |
| Narince | Fuller white, stone fruit and body |
| Öküzgözü | Bright, fruity red, softer tannins |
| Boğazkere | Bold, tannic red for ageing |
| Kalecik Karası | Elegant, medium-bodied red |
An ancient wine country
People have made wine in Cappadocia for thousands of years – the porous tuff holds water and drains well, the altitude keeps nights cool, and the rock itself makes naturally temperature-stable cellars. The signature grape is Emir, a crisp, mineral white grown almost nowhere else, alongside fuller Narince; the reds are the bright Öküzgözü, the powerful Boğazkere and the elegant Kalecik Karası. This is wine with a real sense of place.
Visiting the wineries
The main cellars cluster around Ürgüp and Göreme. Turasan and Kocabağ are the best known and easiest to visit, with tours and tastings; smaller family producers dot the valleys. A tasting pairs naturally with a cave dinner and the testi kebabı in our Cappadocia food guide. Compare tastings and cave dinners on our Cappadocia food & wine page.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cappadocia a wine region?
Yes – one of the world’s oldest. Its volcanic soil, altitude and rock-carved cellars make it Turkey’s most visitable wine country, centred on Ürgüp and Göreme.
What grapes does Cappadocia grow?
The white Emir (its signature) and Narince, and the reds Öküzgözü, Boğazkere and Kalecik Karası – all native Anatolian varieties.
Can you tour wineries in Cappadocia?
Yes – wineries such as Turasan and Kocabağ around Ürgüp offer tours and tastings, and many cave restaurants pour local wine with dinner.
Taste Cappadocian wine
Browse wine tastings and cave dinners on our Cappadocia food & wine page, read what to eat in Cappadocia, or plan from the Turkey hub.
