Today’s post is a guest post from my fellow Vine Lab Wine & Spirits Academy WSET Instructor and friend, Karin Rockstad. Karin’s credentials include – Spanish translator, WSET Educator, SWS, FWS, IWS, Albariño Ambassador, Certified Advanced Cava Educator, Sommelier 1. You can see more of her content at her Instagram, @garbanzo.grrl
Grape Spotlight – Areni
Who’s heard of it? Who’s tasted it? Come on, raise your hands! Ok, ok, I’ll let you off the hook…
This is an ancient black grape variety native to Armenia. The Republic of Georgia and Armenia are considered the birthplace of wine. The grape is named for the town of Areni, where, what is considered the world’s oldest winery, was discovered in a cave – dating back to 4100-4000 BCE!
Areni (sometimes called Areni Noir) is the most important red wine grape of the country. It’s sometimes blended with other grapes, but in the Vayots Dzor region, they usually make varietal wines with it. This is also a hearty grape, surviving winter cold and the wide temperature shifts because of the high altitude of many vineyards.
What does it taste like? Many have compared it to a cross between Pinot Noir and Sangiovese, or a mash-up of Pinot Noir and Merlot. It has medium tannins, medium to high acidity, and is light- to medium-bodied. Aromas and flavors vary between red and black berries, cherries, black olives, and a bit of spice. If aged in oak, smoky notes come through and the texture can be
This Article was originally published on Food Wine Click
