ZORAH KARASI ARENI NOIR RED WINE 2021
Zorah Karasì Areni Noir is the world’s benchmark example of one of the planet’s oldest grape varieties. Areni Noir has been present in Armenia for millennia. Never grafted and on its own roots, it is 100% indigenous to this land and with a unique DNA profile that does not match any other. Extremely resistant to disease and with a very thick skin, Areni Noir has developed the unique capacity to adapt perfectly to the extreme climate of Vayotz Dzor, its natural habitat. The pinnacle of high-altitude viniculture, Zorah’s vineyards are at 1400m above sea level. This is a phylloxera-free terroir with low-vigour, sub-alkaline, sandy soil rich in limestone and large stones.
In 2019 a mild winter, with a lot of snow, was followed by an early start to the season at the beginning of March. Spring was unusually cool with a lot of rain. July was warm but August and September were unusually cool, especially during the evenings. There was no rain during the summer months. Harvest began mid-October. The fruit was, as always, picked by hand with only the very best bunches selected for harvest.
Fermentation took place in rough, temperature-controlled concrete tanks using only natural yeast. Maturation in large local amphorae, known as “karasì”, buried three-quarters in the ground as per ancient local traditions, for around 12 months. The wine then has a further six months of aging in bottle.
The wine shows scents of dark berries, herbs, pepper and anise. It’s exotic and textured, a deep, rich wine with great fruit, a firm long finish and great tannins.
Alcohol: 14%