A Time to Celebrate

We returned to Istanbul and checked into a hotel close to the Bosphorus. At check-in, we were offered complimentary cocktails at the rooftop bar. After dropping off our luggage, we made our way upstairs to celebrate a whirlwind trip.

We sat there for a while, taking in the sights, smells, and sounds of Istanbul. The call to prayer mixing with the hum of the city. Ferries crossing the water below. The enormity of what we'd just experienced slowly settling in.

We knew we'd be back. But before that, there was a lot of work ahead of us. And we were ready for it.

The producers we met during this trip are doing everything right to put Turkish wines on the map. We were proud to be there to experience it firsthand, and even more excited to play a role in the future of the industry by bringing high-quality wines from Türkiye to the United States. Wines that show the variety, the experimentation, and the deep sense of place that defines this country's winemaking culture.

After our drinks, we went out to explore Istanbul one last time. Shopping at the Grand Bazaar, ducking into shops where we were served endless cups of Turkish tea. Finally, we made our way to the newly developed Galataport for dinner along the waterfront.

It was the perfect end to a life-changing trip. We look forward to our return.