100% Ungrafted Areni Noir Amphora-Aged High-Altitude Expression 93 Points Wine-Searcher | 92 Points CellarTracker A Minerally, Refined Testament of Armenian Terroir
Overview & Heritage
Karasderived from the Armenian word for from amphoraecelebrates a 6,100-year winemaking legacy, using ancient clay vessels in its vinification. The 2019 vintage continues Zorah Wines mission of reviving Armenias high-altitude Areni Noir tradition, grown on ungrafted, centuries-old bush vines at 1,400m above sea level in Rind, Vayots Dzor.
Grapes & Terroir
Variety: 100% Areni Noir, indigenous and on own roots
Altitude: 1,400m (4,6004,500ft)
Soil: Phylloxera-free, sub-alkaline sandy loam with limestone and stones
Farming Practice: Practicing organic, harvested by hand
Winemaking & Aging
Fermentation: Wild yeasts in concrete tanks
Aging:
12 months in traditional clay amphorae (karas), many buried underground
Plus 6 months bottle aging
Minimal filtration preserves the wine’s texture and purity
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep ruby, vibrant clarity
Aromas: Spicy dark fruitblackberry, mulberrycombined with incense and mineral earth
Palate: Medium-bodied with soft yet chalky tannins, vivid acidity, flavors of black cherry, blueberry, dried herbs, and graphite, finishing long with lingering spice and mineral drive
Finish: Savory, mineral-charged, and persistent
Cellar Potential & Critical Ratings
93 / 100 Wine-Searcher critic score
92 / 100 CellarTracker community score
Recommended drinking window:20222027
Pairing Suggestions
Ideal with:
Rosemary-grilled lamb or lamb chops
Game meats, such as venison or duck
Wild mushroom risotto or rag
Hard cheeses, like Pecorino or Manchego
In Summary
The Zorah 2019 Karas is a refined and expressive amphora-aged red that captures Armenias ancient winemaking spirit. With ungrafted Areni vines, minimal intervention, and a terroir-driven profile, it earned 93 points from Wine-Searcher for its spice-laced dark fruit, chalky structure, and mineral finish. A captivating wine that speaks of history, altitude, and purity.
