🍷 Zorah 2017 Karasì – Rind, Vayots Dzor, Armenia

100% Ungrafted Areni Noir • Amphora-Aged • High-Altitude Illumination
93 Points – Decanter – A Masterpiece Renewed from Ancient Vines "The most exciting wine fo 2019"

Overview & Heritage

Karasì (“from amphorae”) embraces Armenia’s 6,100-year-old winemaking legacy, reviving ancient techniques in the high-altitude vineyards of Vayots Dzor. The 2017 Karasì, crafted by Zorah Wines, is deeply rooted in tradition—fermented with native yeasts, aged in clay amphorae (karasì), and nurtured by centuries-old, ungrafted Areni Noir vines at 1,400 m elevation.

Decanter awarded this vintage 93 points, calling it one of the most exciting Armenian wines and praising its vibrant expression of terroir.

Grapes & Terroir

• Variety: 100% Areni Noir (ungrafted & indigenous)
• Vine Age & Altitude: Ancient bush vines, 1,400 m above sea level
• Soil: Sub-alkaline sandy soils with limestone and stones; phylloxera-free
• Farming: Practicing organic, hand-harvested

Winemaking & Aging

• Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts in concrete tanks
• Aging:
  • 12 months in traditional Armenian amphorae, some buried underground
  • 6 months bottle aging pre-release
• Minimal filtration preserves texture and purity

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby with a lively clarity
• Aromas: Conveys “lovely small-wild-berry aroma… spicy and savoury with expressive dark fruit”
• Palate: Medium-bodied and vibrant, with flavors of black cherry, cranberry, dark spice, and a hint of floral complexity. Tannins are chalky and mineral-driven, leading to a long, textured finish
• Finish: Persistent, savory, and herbaceous—a true statement of its terroir

IntoWine rated this vintage 91 points, praising its “warm quality… good acidity” and sustained finish

Why It’s Remarkable

• 🏆 93-point Decanter rating, marking international recognition
• 🍇 Crafted from ancient, ungrafted vines preserved in terroir-rich soils
• 🏺 Committed to traditional, amphora-based vinification
• 🎯 Elevated intensity with refined, vibrant structure and natural mineral grip

Food Pairing Suggestions

Perfect with:

• Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and cracked pepper
• Duck breast or game meats
• Wild mushroom risotto
• Aged Pecorino or Manchego cheese

The wine’s bold structure and mineral tannins stand up to rich, savory dishes.

In Summary

The Zorah 2017 Karasì is a profound celebration of Armenia's ancient winemaking story—blending terroir, tradition, and technique into a single, vibrant expression. Awarded 93 points by Decanter, this amphora-aged Areni Noir offers bold red fruit, earthy spice, and mineral elegance, making it both compelling now and cellar-worthy for the future.

A modern classic emerging from ancient soil—truly rediscover Armenia