Zorah Karasi Areni Noir 2022

Region and Vineyards

Nestled in the remote, rugged heart of Vayots Dzor, Zorah's vineyards occupy a pristine setting between 1,400 and 1,600 metres above sea level in the village of Rind. This is one of Armenia's most celebrated wine regions, known for its breathtaking landscapes and the indigenous Areni Noir grape, cultivated here for millennia. The dramatic temperature swings, with warm days and markedly cool nights, promote an extended ripening season, resulting in grapes of remarkable aromatic complexity and natural acidity.

The soils are a mosaic of sandy layers atop rocky, limestone-rich subsoils, fostering deep root systems and enhancing mineral expression in the wines. These ungrafted vines, grown free from phylloxera threats, thrive under dry, sun-drenched summers. The vineyards are meticulously managed with a single guyot trellis system and benefit from drip irrigation, ensuring optimal ripeness and concentration. This interplay of altitude, sunlight, and soil defines the singular identity of Karasi Areni Noir.

Winemaking

The 2022 vintage began with a mild winter, substantial snowfall extending into March, and a cool, wet spring. By summer, warm, dry conditions prevailed, and September's oscillating temperatures (with swings up to 20 °C) further enhanced phenolic development. Grapes were hand-harvested in early to mid-October, strictly selected to ensure only the finest fruit reached the cellar.

Fermentation was conducted with indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled concrete tanks, preserving the grape's authentic character. Following fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in traditional Armenian clay amphorae — "karas" — made from local clay, partially buried to stabilise temperature and enhance circulation. This ancient Armenian method, practiced for over 3,000 years, imparts a subtle earthiness and elegant texture. After amphora ageing, the wine matured an additional 6 months in bottle before release, allowing it to harmonise and fully reveal its finesse.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red with vibrant reflections.
• Aroma: Expressive and inviting, offering bright red fruits, juicy cherry, alongside spicy and herbal nuances that evoke wild mountain herbs and fresh earth.
• Palate: Medium-bodied with silky, well-integrated tannins, lively acidity, and a polished, long finish showcasing a delicate interplay of red fruits, savory spice, and mineral notes.

Did you know?

Areni Noir, Armenia's flagship red grape, is so resilient that it has adapted perfectly to Vayots Dzor's extreme conditions, developing an exceptionally thick skin. Zorah's ungrafted vines, untouched by phylloxera, grow just two kilometres from Areni-1 cave — the site of the world's oldest known winery, dating back over 6,000 years. This remarkable proximity connects each bottle of Karasi to a profound winemaking legacy.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Roast lamb with herbs: The wine's spicy and herbal undertones beautifully mirror the aromatic crust of the dish.
• Grilled eggplant with tahini: Its bright acidity and red fruit character balance the creamy, smoky flavors.
• Duck breast with pomegranate glaze: The wine's freshness and subtle tannins complement the dish's sweet-sour profile.
• Mature Manchego cheese: The wine's lively acidity cuts through the cheese's richness, enhancing its nutty depth.

History of Zorah

Zorah was born from the passion and determination of Zorik Gharibian, an Armenian born in Iran to a family that fled Armenia during the genocide of 1915. Sent to Venice during the Iranian revolution, Zorik developed a successful fashion business in Italy before turning his focus to wine. A transformative trip to Armenia inspired him to reconnect with his heritage and invest in reviving the country's millennia-old wine culture.

In 2000, Zorik acquired a remote, high-altitude site in Vayots Dzor, a region with deep historical significance and home to Areni-1 cave, the world's oldest known winery, dating back over 6,000 years. By 2006, he had planted his first vineyards, focusing on indigenous varieties and traditional methods. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity and minimal intervention, Zorah emerged as a beacon of Armenian winemaking renaissance. Today, the estate is managed with the support of a dedicated team, including winemaker Oshin Gharibian, carrying forward this bold and heartfelt vision.

Region and Vineyards

Zorah's vineyards lie in the Vayots Dzor region, at an altitude of 1,400 to 1,600 metres above sea level, surrounded by breathtaking, rugged mountains. This high-elevation site provides intense sunlight and dramatic day-night temperature variations, extending the ripening season and enhancing aromatic complexity and acidity in the grapes.

The soils are predominantly sandy, layered over rocky, limestone-rich subsoils that ensure excellent drainage and deep root development. Remarkably, the vineyards are planted with ungrafted vines, as phylloxera has never reached this isolated part of Armenia. Indigenous grape varieties — notably Areni Noir, Voskéat, and Garandmak — thrive here, expressing pure terroir character and profound minerality. The vines are managed with meticulous care using the single guyot system, with drip irrigation precisely adapted to preserve vine balance and fruit integrity.

Wine Range of Zorah

Zorah produces a distinctive portfolio that highlights Armenia's indigenous varieties and ancient winemaking methods. The flagship Karasi Areni Noir showcases elegance and spicy minerality, aged in traditional clay amphorae known as "karas." Voski, a white blend of Voskéat and Garandmak, offers a pure, textured expression of Armenia's white heritage grapes. Other limited expressions, such as Yeraz, delve even deeper into single-site precision and old-vine complexity.

Every wine is crafted with indigenous yeasts, minimal intervention, and a deep respect for terroir, resulting in authentic, vibrant, and age-worthy bottlings that reveal the soul of Armenian viticulture.

Did you know?

Zorah's vineyards are only two kilometers from Areni-1 cave, home to the world's oldest winery, dating back more than 6,000 years. This archaeological connection is symbolic of Zorah's mission to revive and honor Armenia's ancient winemaking legacy, bringing it to an international audience with authenticity and pride.