The production process is a closed cycle: after extraction of the grape juice and maceration, the pumice is used as fertilizer for the gardens around the winery. The water used in production is recycled and reused. Wine Tourism Villa Melnik is a one of Bulgaria's top wine tourism destinations. The winery is open for tours and tasting daily. There are numerous events, cultural festivals, farmer's markets, exhibitions, and workshops that take place in the winery. It is also open for private and corporate events and weddings. The Family The founders of Wine Cellar Villa Melnik are Nikola and Lyubka Zikatanov. Their daughter, Militza Zikatanova heads marketing and sales for the family business. Their son, Alex is the bright hope of the winery. Awards SMV Canada - Selections Mondiales des Vins 2020: Double Gold medal and Jury’s Award – Aplauz Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 SMV Canada - Selections Mondiales des Vins 2017: Gold medal – Aplauz, Syrah, Reserve, 2014 Silver Medal – Bergule Melnik & Pinot Noir 2014 SMV Canada - Selections Mondiales des Vins 2016: Gold medal – Aplauz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, 2013 SMV Canada - Selections Mondiales des Vins 2014: Gold medal – Aplauz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, 2011 Decanter World Wine Awards 2015: Silver medal – Aplauz, Melnik 55, Reserve, 2013 Bronze medal – Aplauz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, 2012 Mundus Vini 2019 – Spring Tasting, Germany: Silver Medal – Aplauz Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2015 Mundus Vini 2018, Germany Silver Medal – Rare Varieties Melnik 1300 Jubilee 2016 Mundus Vini 2017 – Spring Tasting, Germany: Silver Medal – Aplauz, Merlot, Reserve, 2013 (89 points Mundus Vini 2016: Gold Medal – Aplauz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, 2013 (91 points) Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2019: Gold Medal – Hailstorm 2019 Gold Medal – Aplauz Merlot 2019 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2017: Gold Medal – Bergule Cuvee 2012 Silver Medal – Orange Wine 2016 Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2016: Gold Medal – Aplauz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Premium Reserve, 2013 Shangai International Wine Challenge 2018 Silver Medal – Aplauz Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2014 Bronze Medal – Bergule Cuvee 2013 International Exhibition of Vine-Growing and Wine Producing Vinaria 2011: Gold medal – Aplauz, Syrah, Reserve, 2010 Bronze medal – Aplauz, Merlot, Reserve, 2010 Bronze medal – Bergule, Rose, Merlot & Syrah 2010 International Exhibition of Vine-Growing and Wine Producing Vinaria 2012: Gold medal – Family Selection, Cabernet Sauvignon & Syrah & Merlot, 2011 Gold medal – Aplauz, Merlot