'The quality of this year's grapes is perfect, but the quantity will be lower than last year,' said Krasimir Koev, director of the Executive Agency on Vine and Wine (EAVW), at the ninth Global Conference on Wine Tourism of the UN World Tourism Organization in Plovdiv.

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Last year, 95 million kg of grapes were harvested, while this year wine producers are expected to gather around 85 million kg. "There will be good wine," said Mr Koev, noting that reserves from previous years will help to meet demand. He added that, since joining the European Union, Bulgaria has received over BGN 1 billion in support for new vineyards, wineries, crop insurance and marketing.

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There are 363 wineries in Bulgaria and most of them have the potential to develop wine tourism, a niche market that offers significant added value. According to Mr Koev, a presentation and advertising strategy is needed.