Villa Melnik Represents Bulgaria at the World’s Largest Wine Museum La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux

A Father-Daughter Walk through the Struma Valley Vineyards – the photograph representing Bulgaria at the “Around the World in 50 Wine Regions” exhibition at La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux.

On February 12, 2026, Bordeaux saw the opening of a landmark exhibition celebrating the 10th anniversary of La Cité du Vin – the world’s premier museum of wine and global viticultural heritage. To mark this milestone, each of the 23 partner countries (representing 55 wine regions) contributed a single photograph that best speaks to their unique identity.

Following an internal competition among 22 wineries from across the country, organized by the Bulgarian Winemaking & Export Association and chaired by Galina Niforou, the entry from Villa Melnik Wine Cellar was chosen to represent Bulgaria on the world stage.

A Father-Daughter Walk through the Struma Valley Vineyards

The photograph was captured by Nikola Trenchev – Niko, a native of Petrich.

In the frame, Militza and Nikola Zikatanov are captured walking through the Mavrud vineyards in the village of Vinogradi, Melnik region, Struma River Valley. It is from these very vines that Villa Melnik produces its flagship Aplauz Mavrud Reserve, as well as the innovative Bergulé Mavrud & Melnik blend.

The image is a powerful symbol of continuity – of knowledge passed from generation to generation and the shared love for the land and wine that binds us. It is a photograph rooted in tradition, yet looking boldly toward the future.

We are incredibly proud that this moment – so personal and so authentic – stands alongside images from all over the world. We are honored that Bulgaria continues to showcase its character, history, and potential to the international wine community.

In its first 10 years, La Cité du Vin has welcomed 3.5 million visitors – over 400,000 people annually from 180 different countries.