I am glad to have found a wine label which matches the current cover story; all the more so, as it is a perfect example of what it is basically meant for. On his website the designer tells about the project: the design process had generated considerable debate and it had been a real challenge to give birth to the Treasure.

The idea behind this wine is that it’s actually not just wine, it’s a real treasure – a cultural and historical blend between two of the most significant symbols of Bulgaria. One is the wine made from Bulgaria’s famous Mavrud variety and the other is the Panagyurishte Gold Treasure – probably the biggest one found on the territory of Bulgaria.

Bulgarian Treasure
Bulgarian Treasure

I have to admit that the task was far from easy since such a concept had to be formulated which is rooted in the past and the same applies to the grape itself.

Legend contends that during the reign of Khan Krum of Bulgaria, all vineyards were ordered to be destroyed. Later, a lion escaped from its cage and terrorized the city. However, a fearless young man named Mavrud (now the name of a wine grape) confronted and slew the lion. The king summoned Mavrud's mother to learn the source of such courage. She said she had secretly saved a vine, made wine, and that this was the source of Mavrud's bravery. Khan Krum ordered the vineyards replanted.

Bulgarian Treasure

As I see it, the challenge was overcome and the label does not only honor the ancestors and evokes the atmosphere of legends but also projects a certain patina they have every right to be proud of. The motives and the central piece are highly elaborated, while the use of gold matches the term ‘treasure’ well. Unfortunately, I cannot yet confirm whether the wine itself is a treasure or not, but hopefully, in a few months I will have the chance to taste it.

Bulgarian Treasure Designed by Jordan Jelev