Ayda Wines

Crafting wines of distinction

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Ayda K.

Ayda K.

At the heart of Ayda Vineyard stands not a legacy, but a woman shaped by conscious choice: Ayda. Before wine took its place at the center of her life, it was a refuge. A successful yet unfulfilling career led her to a clear realization: if time is life’s most valuable resource, it should be invested only in what holds true meaning. For her, wine was never merely a pursuit, but a deep and enduring passion.

When the opportunity to acquire the land arose in December 2014, she recognized it instantly. What others might have seen as a risk, she saw as a discovery waiting to unfold. She does not define herself as an owner, but rather as a custodian. Land is not something to be possessed — it is something to be protected, interpreted, and passed on with greater integrity than it was received. Her philosophy is rooted in the expression of nature — not as consumption, but as a refined respect for process, patience, and detail.

This approach carries a quiet harmony with the spirit of Dionysus — not of excess, but of reverence for craftsmanship and the rhythm of nature. Her disciplined and precise leadership reflects the structure required to transform vision into excellence. Organic production is non-negotiable. Intervention is measured. Standards are exceptionally high. For her, the concept of preservation extends to terroir, tradition, and cultural continuity. The atmosphere she creates, both in the vineyard and in the bottle, is one of serenity — an elegance shaped by calm confidence and patience.

When asked what she hopes to be felt years later, when a bottle of Ayda is opened, her answer is clear: respect. Respect for the time invested. Respect for the land that yields the product. Respect for the discipline behind every decision. In a geography where history is already deeply present, Miss Ayda’s contribution is quieter — yet equally enduring.

Hande B.

Hande B.

Hande Bekçi has been a part of our team since 2018 and has been serving as our General Manager since 2024. Drawn to the world of wine through her enthusiasm and passion for food and beverage, Hande has found in our vineyard a place where passion meets nature.

She values working closely with the land and takes particular pride in being part of a production environment led by women — a structure that reflects both strength and collaboration. For Hande, wine is not merely a product, but an expression of effort and solidarity.

Her favorite, Vinaida 5, stands out with its complexity and depth — a multi-layered wine, much like the dedication behind it. She defines our vineyard as visionary, successful, and women-driven.

Bertan G.

Bertan G.

Bertan Gülkök joined our team in 2025 as Deputy General Manager (Sales & Operations) to lead our international project, which we established in London, United Kingdom in 2019. He brings with him a strong background and a clear vision. Driven by his experience and his ambition to introduce Turkish craftsmanship to the world, he plays a key role in connecting our wines with new audiences.

One of his greatest motivations is to offer a new perspective to wine enthusiasts who have yet to discover the depth and character of Turkish wines. With his strategic mindset and dynamic leadership, he aims to ensure that each bottle tells a story that carries both heritage and innovation.

Bertan’s favorite is Foça Karası, a native grape that reflects authenticity and character. He describes our vineyard as enjoyable, educational, and at times challenging — an environment where curiosity is encouraged and every experience turns into a new discovery.

 Serra K.

Serra K.

Serra Kara has been part of the vineyard since 2024, bringing both technical expertise and genuine passion to her role. A Food Engineer and graduate of Ege University, she combines academic knowledge with hands-on experience in the cellar, contributing thoughtfully to every stage of production. Her journey into wine began through a friend’s encouragement and was strengthened by an earlier internship in the field — an experience that confirmed her desire to be closely involved in winemaking. What she values most is being part of the production process itself, where precision and patience come together to shape each bottle.

Serra’s favorite wine from our estate is the Sauvignon Blanc — aromatic and vibrant, fresh yet moderate in alcohol — a style that mirrors her own balanced and energetic approach. To her, our vineyard is a place of peace, continuous self-improvement, and shared joy — values she carries into her work every day.