BULGARIA | Bu1, Acacia (Black Locust) | Bu2, Coriander | Bu3, Linden | Bu4, Honeydew | Bu5, Lavender | Bu6, Chestnut | Bu7, Forest | Bu8, Rape Seed (Canola) |
Bu4, Strandzha Manov Med (honeydew honey)
The honey
This forest honey is honeydew-based, gathered from tree exudates in the ancient Strandzha forests. It is dark, nearly black, and packed with oligosaccharides, enzymes, and minerals, with average electrical conductivity well above 1.2 mS/cm.
Compared to Spanish or Greek honeydew honeys, the Stranzdha honeydew honey (in Bulgarian: manov med) is less smoky, more resinous, and sometimes reveals a faint cocoa or malt aroma.
Manov med of Strandzha is the only Bulgarian honey with PDO status. The protected designation of origin (PDO) guarantees that all parts of the production, processing and preparation process take place in the specific region.
This particular honey is harvested in 2024 because usually extraction takes place later in the year.
Health benefit: Known as one of the most nutrient-dense honeys in Europe, it is exceptionally rich in antioxidants, minerals, and prebiotics, making it ideal for gut health, energy restoration, and immune resilience.
Compared to Spanish or Greek honeydew honeys, the Stranzdha honeydew honey (in Bulgarian: manov med) is less smoky, more resinous, and sometimes reveals a faint cocoa or malt aroma.
Manov med of Strandzha is the only Bulgarian honey with PDO status. The protected designation of origin (PDO) guarantees that all parts of the production, processing and preparation process take place in the specific region.
This particular honey is harvested in 2024 because usually extraction takes place later in the year.
Health benefit: Known as one of the most nutrient-dense honeys in Europe, it is exceptionally rich in antioxidants, minerals, and prebiotics, making it ideal for gut health, energy restoration, and immune resilience.
The beekeeping
Nedyalko Atanasov of Fazanovo village in the Strandzha mountain.
Nedyalko is a second generation beekeeper professionally involved in the craft for over 30 years. His family is also involved, especially in the hard works during harvest. Currently the apiary consists of 160 Langstroth hives, 8 frames each. Most of the honey is sold in bulk, often reaching international clients in Europe and Asia.
Nedyalko is a second generation beekeeper professionally involved in the craft for over 30 years. His family is also involved, especially in the hard works during harvest. Currently the apiary consists of 160 Langstroth hives, 8 frames each. Most of the honey is sold in bulk, often reaching international clients in Europe and Asia.