Grape Variety
Okuzgozu
"oh-KOOZ-guh-zoo"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Okuzgozu
Origin
Elazığ Province, Turkey
History
Öküzgözü is a native Turkish red grape variety hailing from Elazığ Province in Eastern Anatolia. The name 'Öküzgözü' translates to 'ox eye,' a reference to the grape's large, round, dark-colored berries. Traditionally, it has been cultivated alongside Boğazkere, another indigenous variety, and the two are often blended to produce balanced wines that combine Öküzgözü's fruitiness and acidity with Boğazkere's tannic structure. In recent years, Öküzgözü has gained recognition as a varietal wine, showcasing its unique characteristics.
Appearance
Large, round, dark-colored berries resembling an ox's eye.
Growing Traits
Öküzgözü thrives in high-altitude vineyards, typically between 850 to 1,100 meters (2,800 to 3,500 feet), where the cooling effects of the Euphrates River and large reservoirs help retain the grape’s excellent acidity. It prefers well-drained soils and benefits from the continental climate of the Anatolian region, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters. The grape is known for its resistance to drought and its ability to produce wines with bright acidity and vibrant fruit flavors.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
3/5
Acidity
5/5
Alcohol
2/5
Medium-bodied with a balanced structure, offering both freshness and complexity. Typically vinified dry, though it can exhibit ripe fruit characteristics. Moderate tannin levels, contributing to a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. High acidity, providing vibrancy and enhancing its food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, generally around 12-13%, contributing to its refreshing character.
Taste Profile
Raspberry
Cherry
Pomegranate
Mint
Eucalyptus
Öküzgözü wines are characterized by bright red fruit aromas, notably raspberries and cherries, accented by subtle minty hints. On the palate, they are medium-bodied with fine tannins and excellent acidity, leading to a refreshing and structured finish. The wines often exhibit a vibrant ruby color and can have additional notes of pomegranate and eucalyptus, contributing to their complexity.
Food Pairing
Öküzgözü's high acidity and fruit-forward profile make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as lamb kebabs, and dishes featuring tomatoes and eggplant. Its bright acidity also complements smoked dishes, including smoked chicken or turkey. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired meals and a variety of fish and meats.
Growing Regions
Turkey
ElazığAnkaraCappadociaThrace
Notable Wines & Producers
Kayra Öküzgözü
Kayra Wines
Kavaklıdere Prestige Öküzgözü
Kavaklıdere Winery
Vinkara Öküzgözü Reserve
Vinkara Winery
Okuzgozu FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Okuzgozu?
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Elazığ Province, Turkey
Is Okuzgozu wine full bodied?
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Okuzgozu has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Okuzgozu is Moderate bodied.
Is Okuzgozu wine dry or sweet?
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Okuzgozu has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Okuzgozu is Dry.
Where is Okuzgozu wine from?
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Elazığ Province, Turkey
Where is Okuzgozu grown?
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Okuzgozu is grown in Turkey (Elazığ, Ankara, Cappadocia, Thrace).
What is Okuzgozu like?
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Öküzgözü wines are characterized by bright red fruit aromas, notably raspberries and cherries, accented by subtle minty hints. On the palate, they are medium-bodied with fine tannins and excellent acidity, leading to a refreshing and structured finish. The wines often exhibit a vibrant ruby color and can have additional notes of pomegranate and eucalyptus, contributing to their complexity.
What does Okuzgozu pair with?
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Öküzgözü's high acidity and fruit-forward profile make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as lamb kebabs, and dishes featuring tomatoes and eggplant. Its bright acidity also complements smoked dishes, including smoked chicken or turkey. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired meals and a variety of fish and meats.
What does Okuzgozu taste like?
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Öküzgözü wines are characterized by bright red fruit aromas, notably raspberries and cherries, accented by subtle minty hints. On the palate, they are medium-bodied with fine tannins and excellent acidity, leading to a refreshing and structured finish. The wines often exhibit a vibrant ruby color and can have additional notes of pomegranate and eucalyptus, contributing to their complexity.
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