

From 13 to 15 February, the AgriVentures community is heading south for a winter retreat focused on connection, reflection, and innovation at the intersection of agriculture, wine, and entrepreneurship.
Our destination is Melnik – Bulgaria’s smallest town, yet one of its richest in wine heritage, history, and terroir. Surrounded by vineyards and iconic sandstone formations, Melnik offers an inspiring setting to step back from day-to-day operations and engage in deeper conversations.
Why Melnik?
Melnik is located in the heart of the Struma Wine Valley, one of Bulgaria’s most dynamic wine regions, home to more than 40 wineries. The valley brings together:
Boutique, family-owned producers rooted in tradition
Modern, innovation-driven wineries experimenting with new technologies, styles, and market models
The region is also the birthplace of the Broad-Leaved Melnik grape, a local variety that perfectly expresses the relationship between terroir, climate, and identity.
What We’ll Do
The retreat is designed as a curated ecosystem experience rather than a traditional event.
Over the three days, we will:
Visit selected wineries across the Struma Wine Valley
Explore topics such as wine innovation, terroir, and agri-entrepreneurship
Exchange insights on sustainable agriculture and value creation
Connect, reflect, and recharge as an entrepreneurial community
Practical Information
🚌 Participation option: You can still join the winery tours by traveling with us via a private bus
If you would like to join the tours, explore the wine valley, and be part of the discussions, please get in touch.
👉 Register your interest here:https://lnkd.in/dCrP4eUs
Melnik. Wine. Innovation. Community.
From 13–15 February, this is where the AgriVentures ecosystem comes together.
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