Good News from Wine Lovers On May 8th, in an online group of wine enthusiasts, I came across the exciting announcement that Erhan Seçkin’s new winery was nearing completion. Considering Turkey’s approach to wine and the current economic conditions, this news reminds us how strong the passion for winemaking truly is—and it rekindles our hopes. At the same time, having worked with 142 producers, we know very well the thorny challenges of wine production. So, we also recognize the tough road ahead for Mr. Seçkin.

A Brief Look at Anatolian Wine History

Turkey is fortunate to be part of the land where wild grapes turned into cultivated vines and where the first wines came to life. Although winemaking faded into the background over history, the first 25 years of the Republic were marked by intensive efforts to develop viticulture. The following 75 years saw a decline in this momentum, and the last 20 years have been especially challenging.

The revival of private-sector wine production since the 1990s shows how important passion is, even in a country with limited capital and despite state policies. Seeing Turkish wines gaining recognition at international events and producers tirelessly reviving endemic grape varieties fills us with renewed hope.

Meeting Aura Winery

About a month after the initial announcement, we received word that Mr. Seçkin had completed the banderol process. In Turkey, legal wine production requires official permits with strict conditions.

Since last year, producers must provide a financial guarantee based on their production volume—ranging from 719,000 TRY to 71 million TRY. Additionally, each bottle must bear a specially printed banderol, which can sometimes delay shipments.

Aura artık bandrolünü de aldığına göre bizim şarap sipariş etmemizde engel kalmamıştı. İkinci kez hayırlı olsun mesajımızı iletirken Erhan Bey’den ilk aşamada bir beyaz Sauvignon Blanc şarabının sevke hazır olduğu bilgisini de aldık.

With the banderol secured, nothing stood in the way of placing our order. We received news that a white Sauvignon Blanc was ready for shipment. When Mr. Seçkin said he would come to Istanbul with the wines and wanted to meet, we were thrilled.

A Passion for Wine and the Journey

Mr. Seçkin’s passion grew over many years, sparked and guided by a close relative. He traveled to renowned wine regions, tasted diverse wines, and ultimately caught the “wine virus.” His engineering background led him to conduct experimental home winemaking projects, which soon evolved into real production.

Vineyard Selection and Grape Work

After deciding to produce commercially, vineyard hunting began. A small vineyard overlooking Urla seemed promising but was located near a dam zone, making it risky. Eventually, a 20-decare plot in Gömeç, Balıkesir, was chosen. Understanding the importance of terroir, soil analyses and 50 years of meteorological data were collected and expert advice sought.

Although a big fan of Bordeaux blends, evaluations revealed Grenache and Syrah alongside Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were the best fit. Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot were dropped.

Good relationships helped secure high-quality clone cuttings. Now five years old, the vines have been heavily pruned and cultivated.

Last year, a “field blend” from these vines was made, and it’s still aging. Mr. Seçkin remains hopeful about the outcome.

Current Wines and the Future

The Sauvignon Blanc in WAYANA’s menu is sourced from an organic vineyard in Seferihisar, not from Aura’s own grapes. It is a clean, high-acidity wine with grapefruit and citrus peel notes. A Cabernet Sauvignon is expected to join soon, though we haven’t tasted it yet.

Aura Winery is planned as a boutique producer, currently with a 20,000-liter capacity. Mr. Seçkin expects to move up to the next category of 20,000–100,000 liters.

A FINAL WORD

Aura Winery is a boutique operation born from a deep passion for wine and respect for the craft. As WAYANA, we warmly welcome Aura and look forward to introducing their wines to our guests who truly appreciate wine. Considering everyone’s unique palate, there will surely be those who fall in love with Aura’s Sauvignon Blanc.

We wish Erhan Seçkin and Aura Winery great success on this long journey. May everything go just as they wish.