Grape growing and wine production have a long history in Bulgaria, dating back to the times of the Thracians.
Typical styles are Muscat Ottonel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Aligoté, Pamid and the local Gamza.
It is divided into an eastern and western subregion, with styles such as Muscatel, Riesling, Rkatsiteli, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot dominating.
[citation needed] The temperate continental climate in the area and the favourable distribution of precipitation are good premises for the developed red wine growing in the lowlands of Upper Thrace.
The area is small in size, but is climatically very distinct and characteristic, owing to the strong Mediterranean influence from the south.