🍷 Zorah 2018 Karasì – Rind, Vayots Dzor, Armenia

100% Ungrafted Areni Noir • Amphora-Aged • High-Altitude Terroir
92 Points – WineStatistics – A Vibrant, Mineral-Driven Armenian Classic

Overview & Heritage

The Karasì line carries forward an ancient wine-making tradition in Armenia, reflecting over 6,100 years of viticultural history. Crafted by Zorah Wines, this 2018 vintage revives the use of traditional karas (amphorae) and features grapes from ungrafted Areni Noir, cultivated at 1,400 m altitude on the steep slopes of Rind, Vayots Dzor—making it both a revival of ancient winemaking and a modern expression of terroir.

Grapes & Terroir

• Grape Variety: 100% Areni Noir – indigenous, thick-skinned, and resistant
• Alt. & Vines: Bush vines at 1,400 m, rooted in sandy, limestone-rich, phylloxera-free soil
• Farming: Practicing organic, hand-harvested, reflecting purity and care

Winemaking & Aging

• Fermentation: Natural yeast in concrete tanks
• Aging:
  • 12 months in traditional, hybrid amphorae—some subterranean—to honor ancient methods
  • Further 6 months in bottle before release)
• Filtration: Very light, preserving the wine's texture and core

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Clear, pale ruby
• Aroma: Ripe red cherry and cranberry with earthy-spice layers of leather, wild herbs, and leafy nuance
• Palate: Medium-bodied with supple tannins and vibrant acidity; notes of red fruit compote, gentle spice, chalk-mineral freshness, and subtle tobacco leaf
• Finish: Smooth, lingering, and mineral-focused—anchored by terroir
  A beautifully rustic yet refined red that is both elegant and expressive of Armenian soil.

Accolades

• 92 points from WineStatistics, praising its purity, mineral drive, and status among Armenia’s best wines

Pairing Suggestions

Pairs gracefully with:

• Rosemary-spiced lamb
• Wild mushroom risotto or grilled portobello
• Charcuterie and aged farmhouse cheese
• Hearty vegetable stews with herbs

The wine’s structure, minerality, and subtle spice make it ideal for rich, rustic fare.

In Summary

The Zorah 2018 Karasì is a testament to Armenia’s ancient winemaking heritage—fermented and aged using centuries-old methods, yet vibrant, fresh, and accessible. With a 92-point rating, it stands out as an expressive and terroir-driven example of ungrafted Areni Noir. A rustic, elegant red, rich in history with every sip.

Discover the soul of Armenian high-altitude terroir—one amphora at a time.