KIZILGÖL TARIM ÜRÜNLERİ GIDA SAN. VE TİC. LTD. ŞTİ joined Iter Vitis
On February 22nd, 2025, a significant milestone for Iter Vitis was celebrated in Ankara, with the certification ceremony of a new member, KIZILGÖL TARIM ÜRÜNLERİ GIDA SAN. VE TİC. LTD. ŞTİ. The event took place in the esteemed presence of Meltem Onhon, Chair of the Bureau of the Governing Board of the EPA of Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe.
Kızılgöl Bağcilik & Ni&Ce Wines: A Story Born from the Ancient Lands of Kilis
Kilis, described by Evliya Çelebi in his Seyahatname as a “city surrounded by forty types of vineyards,” holds a unique position in viticultural history. Situated at the crossroads of East and West, Kilis boasts fertile lands with a winemaking tradition spanning thousands of years. This rich heritage is now being revived through Kızılgöl Bağcilik, established in 2009, bringing nearly forgotten local grape varieties back to life.
Ni&Ce: The Realization of a Dream
This inspiring venture began with the belief in Kilis’ soil potential for premium winemaking. After detailed research conducted by a team of experts from Bordeaux, France, the Kızılgöl region was identified as the most suitable terroir. In 2009, grape vines from Bordeaux and Rhône were planted across a 150-acre estate, and by 2014, the first harvest was successfully completed.
What started as a hobby has grown into a renowned winemaking initiative, with Ni&Ce introducing six unique wines crafted from Kilis’ fertile soil. These wines have captured the attention of wine experts and are now available in exclusive wine shops in Istanbul and Bodrum.
The Miras Kilis Agrotourism Project
In 2024, Kızılgöl Bağcilik launched the Miras Kilis Agrotourism Project, a remarkable initiative aimed at reviving Kilis’ historical, agricultural, and cultural heritage. The project not only focuses on wine production but also seeks to foster a thriving ecosystem in collaboration with the local community. Over the past year, more than 150 visitors have explored Kilis’ ancient cities, agricultural fields, and culinary treasures, contributing to the region’s economic and tourism growth.
Horos Karası: The Heritage Grape of Kilis
A centerpiece of the Miras Kilis project is the revival of Horos Karası, a valuable black grape variety being developed as a premium winemaking grape. Ongoing efforts aim to craft a distinct regional flavor profile, ensuring that this precious variety is preserved for future generations.
From Past to Future: Kızılgöl Bağcilik
Since its founding in 2009, Kızılgöl Bağcilik has championed the promotion of Kilis’ ancient history, agricultural richness, and unique flavors. The mission remains clear: to preserve and enhance local values while placing Kilis on the national and international map as a center of cultural and viticultural excellence.
The inclusion of KIZILGÖL TARIM ÜRÜNLERİ in Iter Vitis underscores a shared vision of celebrating wine as a cultural product, connecting local heritage with European narratives, and highlighting the profound link between land, tradition, and culture.
