Bornova Municipality transforms idle land in Işıkkent into a Misket Grape vineyard

Bornova Municipality is turning a 9-decare (approximately 2.2-acre) idle area in Işıkkent into a Bornova Misket Grape vineyard, aiming to revive the geographically indicated grape variety that symbolizes the district. Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that they are working to make every corner of Bornova greener and more productive. The project seeks to support local production and revitalize Bornova’s agricultural heritage.

Bornova Municipality has taken an important step to restore the geographically indicated Bornova Misket Grape—one of the district’s most significant symbols—to its homeland. A 9-decare municipal plot in Işıkkent, which had long been used for illegal dumping, is now being cleaned and transformed into a productive vineyard.

Mayor Eşki: “We continue to make use of idle lands”

Inspecting the site, Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki stated:

“We’re in a 9-decare area in Işıkkent that was once neglected and filled with illegal debris. Our goal is to turn this land into a vineyard of Bornova Misket Grapes—an emblem of İzmir and Bornova. With the yield we’ll obtain, we plan to promote this geographically indicated product worldwide. Wherever we have idle land, we’ll transform it into urban gardens, vineyards, and lavender fields. We’ll keep working tirelessly to make Bornova greener, more colorful, and more productive.”

Collaboration with the Manisa Viticulture Research Institute

Previously, Bornova Municipality, in collaboration with the Manisa Viticulture Research Institute, helped five local producers establish one-decare vineyards of Bornova Misket Grapes. The new project in Işıkkent aims both to increase production and to preserve the city’s cultural and agricultural legacy.

A Bornova classic with its scent and flavor

Native to Bornova and registered with a geographical indication in 2020, the Bornova Misket Grape is known for its delicate aroma, thin skin, and distinctive muscat scent. It holds a special place among wine grape varieties but is also favored as a table grape. Through this initiative, Bornova Municipality aims to both support local producers and revive Bornova’s historical agricultural heritage.