Boutique Wine Cellar Kiossev
Specializing in the production of high quality wines in limited series. Made for true connoisseurs and collectors. Our series contain from 300 to 5000 bottles.
Located in the village of Ilindentsi, at the foot of the Pirin Mountain, our cellar sits in a land where wine making and wine fairs have been celebrated for thousands of years. The mountain-surrounded village is located in one of the most environmentally friendly areas in Europe – the Struma River Valley.
1922
Lefter, the Inspiration
Nikolay Kiossev's grandfather - where it all began
The tradition and love of wine in the family starts as far back as the early 20th century. In 1922, great-grandfather Atanas buys a large house with a cellar. Ten years later, he gets ill and his 14-year-old son Lefter (Nikolay Kiossev's grandfather) has to start caring for the crops, including grapes and wine in the cellar.
With much work, dedication, perseverance, and of course love, at the age of 20, Lefter becomes the youngest wine-maker in the area. For many years numerous connoisseurs from all over Bulgaria go to him for his rich and aromatic wine.
In addition to wine, Nikolay's grandfather is also known for his wisdom and justice. Very often, his neighbors would ask him for advice, and he would share his knowledge with them. Maybe that's why the whole neighborhood grows to respectfully call him the "Father."
Revival
Blood is thicker than water...
A generation later, and several years after his grandfather's passing, his first-born grandson Nikolay Kiossev is the man in whom this unfailing love of wine is awakened again. Having crossed the age of Christ, Kiossev, at 35, is increasingly considering creating a winery.
Enthusiastic, on October 9th, 2000, together with his father, Simeon, and his 14-year-old son, Mario, he begins to write the new story and makes the first 400 bottles using his grandfather's vineyards. The wine is fantastic! So good that it is as if it was made by his grandpa. So good that it takes 4 years to be able to do something similar again.
There was an interesting moment during Nikolay's visit to the 'Vine and Wines' in Sofia, where he meets one of the most established authorities in the field of winemaking – it turns out that the professor knew Nikolay's grandfather (who was no longer alive at the time). He shares great impressions of his grandfather's skills and gives valuable advice and guidance on how to improve his senses for winemaking and how to grow and make quality wine.
Building of the Kiossev Wine Cellar
After numerous trips around the villages in the Melnik region and reading many books on the subject, Kiossev realizes that the ideal place is the village of Ilindentsi – a wonderful wine-growing region at the foot of the Pirin Mountain – in the Struma River Valley.
The natural beauty of the landscape around really adds to the picture. In 2003 he buys land in the heart of the village and starts to build the new family boutique cellar "Kiossev".
The first wine made there from the 2006 harvest was MonMar – dedicated and named after his two children, Simona (Moni) and Mario.
Mario Kiossev and Nikolai Kiossev
Carriers of the Tradition
Fifth generation wine producers at Kiossev Cellar, carrying forward over a century of winemaking excellence. Our family's dedication to quality and tradition has been passed down through generations, creating wines that reflect both our heritage and our commitment to innovation.
Today, Mario and Nikolai continue the family legacy with the same passion and dedication that has defined the Kiossev name for generations. Their commitment to excellence ensures that every bottle tells the story of our family's century-long journey in winemaking.
Representation of Bulgaria at the European Parliament
2008 - A proud moment for Bulgarian wine
In 2008 the family boutique wine cellar "Kiossev" is chosen to represent Bulgaria at the first salon of Bulgarian wine in the European Parliament. Bulgaria's performance exceeds all expectations. Everyone is fascinated.
At a press conference to the question by a French journalist, "How do you make wine in Bulgaria and in your cellar?", Kiossev won the sympathy and respect of those present, replying:
"Us, the family cellar owners, make wine the same way we make and care for our children – with love, care, heart and soul."
The press room bursts into applause.
Our Unique Terroir
The southwestern region of Bulgaria, the Struma River Valley, is characterized by alternating cool nights and sunny hot days.
Pirin Mountain
At the foot of majestic Pirin Mountain, providing perfect elevation and protection
Eco-Friendly Valley
One of the most environmentally friendly areas in Europe
Perfect Climate
Cool nights and sunny hot days create enchanting wine aromas
Our Wine Philosophy
"The southwestern region of Bulgaria, the Struma River Valley, is characterized by alternating cool nights and sunny hot days. This gives the grapes such enchanting and memorable aromas that are carried and are characteristic of the wines of the boutique winery 'Kiossev'. With our attention to every grain, with a lot of love and skills, combining the traditions of this wine region with the new technologies and our innovations, we give you the opportunity to enjoy our wine masterpieces."
Attention to Detail
Every grape carefully selected
Made with Love
Passion in every bottle
Tradition & Innovation
Heritage meets technology
Limited Editions
300-5000 bottles per series
Our Services
From wine tastings to accommodations, discover all we have to offer
Online Shop
Our boutique winery offers a wide selection of white and red wines, rosé wines, and dessert wines. From grape to bottle, each bottle reflects our commitment to quality for those who value it.
Fast and reliable delivery throughout Bulgaria and Europe. Perfect for gifts with branded labels available for special occasions.
Visit Wine ShopWine Tastings
You can choose your 3, 4 or 5 step tasting. Kiossev Wine Cellar offers you even more wine tasting and online tastings with natural products.
Experience guided tastings with our wine experts, learning about each wine's unique characteristics and our winemaking process.
Book TastingGuest House "Kiossev"
The guest house offers great opportunities for wine tourism, a romantic weekend or a pleasant holiday in all seasons. Located just 15 meters from the wine cellar.
Accommodation and packages available for the ultimate wine country experience.
View AccommodationsThe Story Continues...
Everything else is a story which we will tell you when you visit the cellar.
Experience Kiossev Tradition
Join us in the Struma Valley and discover why our limited edition wines have delighted connoisseurs for over a century.