🍷 Zorah 2021 Karasì – Rind, Vayots Dzor, Armenia

100% Areni Noir • Amphora-Aged • Ancient Wine Tradition Revived

Overview & Heritage

The name Karasì comes from the Armenian word for “from amphorae,” paying homage to Armenia’s 6,200-year winemaking legacy. Crafted by Zorah Wines, this bottling embraces ancient techniques and celebrates an unbroken lineage of grape-growing in the rugged, high-altitude terroir of Vayots Dzor.

Made entirely from 100% ungrafted Areni Noir—a uniquely Armenian variety with a distinct genetic profile—Karasì is a powerful statement of place and tradition, deeply rooted in the land’s viticultural history.

Grapes & Terroir

• Grape Variety: 100% Areni Noir (ungrafted, indigenous)
• Vine Age: Ancient bush vines, thriving in extreme conditions
• Altitude: High-altitude vineyards at 1,400 m (4,500 ft)
• Soil Type: Sub-alkaline sandy soils rich in limestone and large stones; phylloxera-free
• Farming Practice: Practicing organic, hand-harvested

Winemaking & Aging

• Fermentation: Natural yeast in rough concrete vats with temperature control
• Aging:
  • 12 months in large, locally-made amphorae (karasì), some partially buried in the soil following ancient techniques
  • 6 months bottle aging before release
• No oak influence—it’s all about pure expression of grape and earth

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby with a vibrant clarity
• Aroma: Intense, earthy red fruit—crushed strawberry and wild cherry—followed by subtle herbal notes and crushed stone
• Palate: Energetic and vertical, offering soft red berry flavors interwoven with earthy spice, graphite nuance, and subtle herbiness
• Tannins: Chalky, fine-grained, and expressive of the limestone terroir
• Finish: Long, mineral-driven, and elegant

This wine is vivid, terroir-driven, and expressive of Areni Noir’s deep potential.

Critical Acclaim

While scarce on external scoring, Zorah’s amphora-aged expressions are consistently praised for their authenticity, power, and mineral complexity—a style reflecting Armenia’s ancient viticultural roots.

Food Pairing Suggestions

An ideal accompaniment for:

• Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and cracked pepper
• Wild mushroom risotto with aged Parmesan
• Roasted root vegetables and earthy grains
• Charcuterie: bresaola, prosciutto, or hard sheep’s cheeses

In Summary

The Zorah 2021 Karasì is a radiant tribute to Armenia’s earliest viticultural traditions, crafted with purity, power, and methodical patience. Sourced from ungrafted Areni Noir vines at 4,500’ altitude and aged in traditional amphorae, it reveals bright red fruits, chalky tannins, and a mineral finish that lingers. This wine is not just a drink—it’s a reconnection to a 6,200-year legacy in every sip.

Rediscover Armenia. Rediscover history. Santé. Genatz!