Meritaj was established in 2013 by Guldal “GiGi” Lindberg as the importer of fine wines from Turkey to the United States. After meeting several Turkish wine producers at an international wine conference, Lindberg, herself a native of Istanbul, saw a unique opportunity to bring Turkey’s world-class wines to a growing US market. An MBA and former investment banker, Lindberg became a certified sommelier at the International Culinary Center where she trained to establish the foundation for her import & export company which is based in Emerald Hills, California.
Wiyana was the word for wine used by the ancient pre-Hittites who lived in Anatolia between 3,000 and 4,000 BCE. Yet, Turkey, through no fault of its terroir or native grapes, has gone unrecognized as a wine-producing nation for centuries. But the 21st century ushered in welcome changes for this historic homeland of wild vitis vinifera. In 2001, the state abolished its monopoly on alcohol and the wine industry was privatized and regulated. Although Turkey’s fledgling domestic market remains suppressed by punitive taxes, wine quality has soared drawing the attention of industry opinion leaders and wine enthusiasts from eager export markets around the world. As Turkey seeks a global market for its wines, Lindberg and companies like Meritaj, will play an important role in the renaissance of Turkey’s wine culture.
As an ambassador for fine wines from Turkey, Lindberg brings her innate understanding of Turkish culture and cuisine to bear in establishing a niche for the native grape varieties of Turkey and varietally-correct, award-winning expressions of international varieties. “The truly fine wines of Turkey, those that demonstrate the quality and immense potential of Turkish producers, are only now making their way to the key markets of the world,” said Lindberg. “By bringing fine Turkish wines to an eager and growing market, Meritaj is proud to be taking part in the renaissance of Turkey’s wine heritage.”