Istanbul: Wine Tasting with Indigenous Local Varieties

When it comes to exploring Istanbul’s vibrant food and drink culture, a wine tasting focused on indigenous Turkish grape varieties offers a refreshing and authentic perspective. While the city is famed for its historic sites and bustling markets, its emerging natural wine scene provides a more intimate, locally rooted experience. This tour at WAYANA Wine Bar in Kadköy promises a taste of Turkey’s unique vinicultural heritage, beyond the familiar international labels.

What we love about this experience is how it combines educational insight with tastings of rare native grapes, all in a cozy, welcoming setting. The host’s knowledge about regenerative farming, terroir, and legends behind each wine adds depth to the journey. Plus, the fact that the wines are low-intervention and often from old vines makes this a special treat for natural wine lovers. One slight consideration is that no food is served during the tasting, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with sipping on wine with minimal snacks.

This tasting adventure is perfect for curious travelers eager to explore Turkey’s native grape varieties, especially if you’re interested in natural, low-intervention wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just curious about Turkish wines, you’ll find this experience both insightful and enjoyable.

Contents show

Key Points

Focus on indigenous Turkish grape varieties, offering a rare glimpse into local winemaking traditions.
Educational and engaging host connects terroir, legends, and regenerative farming practices.
Cozy and intimate setting with only 24 seats, perfect for asking questions and engaging directly.
Six flights of wine (50ml each) keep your palate fresh and allow for varied tasting.
No food served, so plan accordingly if you want to pair with snacks.
Affordable price point considering the depth of knowledge and unique wines offered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Turkey’s Native Grape Varieties and Natural Wines

Turkey boasts an astonishing 1,459 grape varieties, with 78 used specifically for winemaking. Yet, most travelers only encounter international labels or mass-produced wines. This tour at WAYANA Wine Bar aims to change that narrative by highlighting indigenous grapes like Hasandede, Karasakz, Kanlkara, and Karku. These varieties are often grown on old vines and cultivated with regenerative farming methods, adding to their authenticity and appeal.

The experience begins in Kadköy, a lively neighborhood that’s increasingly becoming a hub for alternative, cultural experiences. The meeting point is marked by a modern steel statue outside the wine bar, a sleek and contemporary space that’s quite different from traditional wine cellars. Inside, the bar boasts an impressive collection of over 500 labels from 142 local wineries, making it a strong representative of Turkey’s natural wine movement.

Ready for another glass? Here are more wine experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul

What to Expect During the Tasting

The tasting session features six flights of wine, each approximately 50 ml, split evenly between three whites and three reds. These are not your standard commercial wines; instead, they focus on low-intervention styles that emphasize terroir and natural fermentation.

You might encounter wines made from skin-contact Hasandede grapes, which tend to have a greater complexity and textural richness. The wild-ferment Karasakz offers a different profile—more rustic and lively—while Kanlkara, sourced from wild vines, provides a glimpse of truly untamed flavors. Amber Karku, a type of orange wine, adds another dimension with its oxidative, tannic qualities.

The host, a knowledgeable sommelier, explains how each wine’s terroir influences its taste and shares stories behind each grape’s history. These stories often touch on regenerative farming practices, highlighting a movement towards more sustainable viticulture in Turkey. Emilie, a recent reviewer, found the experience “Interesting wines in an exciting area,” which sums up the appeal of discovering something genuinely different from mass-market wines.

The Setting and Atmosphere

With only 24 seats, the environment at WAYANA is intimate and conversational—ideal for asking questions or just relaxing with a glass. The staff’s approachability enhances the experience, making it easy to connect with the host’s passion for indigenous wines. The ambiance is modern yet warm, encouraging visitors to take their time and savor each sip.

While no food is included, the focus remains on exploring the wines. Guests often note that the small tasting sizes help keep the palate fresh, preventing fatigue over the course of the session. If you wish, additional food and wine service is available at menu prices, giving you the option to extend your experience.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $50 per person, this tasting provides excellent value when considering the quality and rarity of the wines, as well as the educational component. Given that the bar’s collection features wines from over 142 local wineries, the experience offers a unique opportunity to taste wines that are often difficult to find elsewhere. The knowledge shared by the sommelier adds extra depth, making this more than just a tasting—it’s an insightful journey into Turkey’s natural wine landscape.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: Expect around 1.5 to 2 hours, enough time to relax, ask questions, and savor each flight.
Group Size: Limited to 24 seats, ensuring a personal and engaging environment.
Language: The experience is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.
Reservation & Payment: You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, which is handy for flexible travel plans.
Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 18.
Cancellation: Easy to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Hungry for more Istanbul flavors? We've covered these other food and drink spots

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers with a curiosity for local culture and natural wines. If you enjoy tasting something beyond the usual, or have an interest in sustainable agriculture and indigenous grape varieties, this will meet your expectations. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a small, intimate setting over large, commercial wine tours. Keep in mind that no food is served, so if you prefer a full meal alongside your wine, plan to eat beforehand or extend your visit afterward.

Final Thoughts

For anyone looking to broaden their understanding of Turkish wine beyond the familiar, this tasting at WAYANA Wine Bar offers an authentic and educational experience. The focus on indigenous varieties, low-intervention methods, and old vines makes it a standout for natural wine enthusiasts. The relaxed environment and knowledgeable host make it equally suitable for newbies and seasoned tasters alike.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s hidden vinicultural gems—a perfect complement to the city’s historic sights and bustling markets. It’s an inexpensive, memorable way to connect with local traditions and support the country’s emerging natural wine movement.

FAQ

Is food included with the wine tasting?
No, the tasting does not include food. If you want to enjoy snacks, additional food service is available at menu prices.

How many wines will I taste?
You’ll sample six wines, with three whites and three reds, each about 50 ml.

Can I choose to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay nothing today, giving you flexible planning options.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 due to alcohol restrictions.

What is the atmosphere like?
The setting is intimate, cozy, with only 24 seats, making it perfect for questions and relaxed conversation.

What makes these wines special?
They focus on indigenous Turkish grape varieties, often from old vines, and are crafted with low-intervention, sustainable practices.

How long does the experience last?
Expect around 1.5 to 2 hours, plenty of time to explore and enjoy the wines without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re passionate about natural wines or simply want to discover a different side of Istanbul’s vibrant scene, this tour offers a genuine, flavorful journey into Turkey’s vinicultural roots.