Öküzgözü
Öküzgözü is one of Anatolia’s oldest and most characteristic red grape varieties. Another Mesopotamian heritage, it is native to the fertile Euphrates River basin of Eastern Anatolia and is a red grape variety named after its large, round, plump berries resembling an ox’s eye. Grown for centuries in and around Elazığ, Öküzgözü ranks among the most important indigenous varieties in Turkish winemaking thanks to its vibrant fruit, balanced structure and elegant drinkability.
The Öküzgözü grapes cultivated in the Kalecik region take on a different character under the influence of its distinctive terroir. The microclimate shaped by the Kızılırmak, high altitude and marked differences between day and night temperatures heighten the grapes’ aromatic intensity while helping them retain their natural acidity. Here the grapes have medium-thick skins and a dark purple color, with high acidity and a soft tannin structure, giving Öküzgözü the potential to produce balanced, elegant wines that express their fruit with great vibrancy.
These wines are generally vibrant purple-red to ruby in color. On the nose, sour cherry, cherry, blackberry, red plum and wild-berry aromas take the lead, while notes of clove, white pepper and subtle spice may develop over time. With their medium body, lively acidity and soft tannins, they offer a balanced character that remains easy to drink despite its intensity.
One of this grape’s most remarkable qualities is its ability to preserve concentrated fruit aromas without losing its elegance. Its balanced body and lively structure yield wines that can be enjoyed young yet are also suited to a certain degree of aging. Its fruit-driven character and freshness have made it one of Anatolia’s best-loved red grape varieties. Wines made from this grape have gained recognition both locally and internationally, contributing to the global recognition of Turkish red wines.
Öküzgözü pairs well with red meats, lamb, grilled dishes, traditional meat recipes of Anatolian cuisine and semi-hard cheeses. Its lively acidity balances richer dishes, while its fruity aromas enrich the whole gastronomic experience.
For Vinkara, Öküzgözü grown in Kalecik is a significant representative of Anatolia’s rich grape heritage. Bringing the culture of its Mesopotamian and Euphrates homeland together with the distinctive terroir of Kalecik, this precious grape unites past and future, tradition and modern winemaking, in the same glass. With a character that is reshaped at every harvest, Öküzgözü remains one of the strongest voices telling Anatolia’s winegrowing story to the world.
