Russia's most important wine region, occupying the Black Sea coastal strip between Anapa and Novorossiysk in Krasnodar Krai. The Black Sea's moderating maritime influence creates conditions comparable to Bordeaux — warm summers, mild winters, and sufficient rainfall. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, and indigenous varieties Krasnostop Zolotovskiy and Tsimlyanskoye Chernoye produce wines of genuine quality. Abrau-Durso produces Russia's most famous sparkling wine in the méthode champenoise tradition established by French winemakers in the 19th century.
| Year | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | Good vintage; Krasnodar producers pivoting to Asian export markets with some success. |
| 2022 | — | Western sanctions complicated imports, driving increased domestic wine production and quality focus. |
| 2021 | — | Strong growing season; Russian wine production benefiting from expanded domestic market. |
| 2020 | — | Solid vintage; domestic Russian wine market strengthened with import competition reduced. |
| 2019 | — | Best vintage for Krasnodar in years; quality producers earning European distribution. |
| 2018 | — | FIFA World Cup spotlight on Russia; wine culture gained national attention. |
| 2017 | — | Reliable vintage; Russian wine market growing rapidly with domestic interest. |
| 2016 | — | Outstanding year; Lefkadia earned first international recognition at Decanter WWA. |
| 2015 | — | Strong Black Sea vintage; maritime moderation created excellent ripeness. |