Quality and Ratings according to DiVino (September 2018):
Beautiful and translucent ruby colour. Complex nose with notes of eucalyptus, cedar, sweet red pepper, juicy blackberries and fern. Shapely, tight and quite elegant body with excellent finish and length. A noble, remarkable wine with character. May continue to age (2018-2023). An exceptional wine with its own classic style (91 pts.).
Qualities and rating according to MEIK 98:
Regarding the variety: Ruen is a unique local sort, selected in the Sandanski region. Its parent varieties are Shiroka Melnishka (Broad-leafed Melnik) and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Vinification: The wine is produced from carefully selected grapes from the winemaker’s own vineyards and aged for 18 months in Bulgarian oak barrels.
Characteristics: Lustrous ruby colour. Expressive and complex aroma of red fruit – cherries, sour cherries, seed stones, and black currant, supported by smoky and woody aromas – eucalyptus, cedar, branches, shoots, fern and sweet red pepper. Light to medium, outstandingly elegant structure with pleasant juiciness in the finish along with a lasting impression of fruit. A noble wine for connoisseurs.
Limited series: 1715 bottles.