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Shamakhi

The Shamakhi District is located on the south-eastern foothills of the Greater Caucasus, 123 km from Baku.

The Shamakhi District has been one of the greatest centers of Azerbaijani viticulture since ancient times. The versatility of varieties, favorable climate and centuries-old traditions of viticulture cause the permanent success of Shamakhi wines beyond Azerbaijan. Connoisseurs from Western Europe, e.g. the Portuguese, had already been buying the local wine in the 16th century. The Shamakhi vine is said to have been exported to France, and globally recognized wines were produced from it. The Madrasah vine, which produces excellent dark-ruby wine with the same name, is considered the most valuable grape variety. The Shamakhi wines are popular not only in the domestic market, but also win medals and diplomas of international exhibitions. An Agrarians' Association has been established and two primary wine processing plants have been restored. Private wine-making entities are also developing.