🍷 Zorah 2019 Karasì – Rind, Vayots Dzor, Armenia

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

Karasì—derived from the Armenian word for “from amphorae”—celebrates a 6,100-year winemaking legacy, using ancient clay vessels in its vinification. The 2019 vintage continues Zorah Wines’ mission of reviving Armenia’s high-altitude Areni Noir tradition, grown on ungrafted, centuries-old bush vines at 1,400 m above sea level in Rind, Vayots Dzor.

Grapes & Terroir

• Variety: 100% Areni Noir, indigenous and on own roots
• Altitude: 1,400 m (4,600–4,500 ft)
• 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 (karasì), 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 fruit—blackberry, mulberry—combined 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: 2022–2027

Pairing Suggestions

Ideal with:

• Rosemary-grilled lamb or lamb chops
• Game meats, such as venison or duck
• Wild mushroom risotto or ragù
• Hard cheeses, like Pecorino or Manchego

In Summary

The Zorah 2019 Karasì is a refined and expressive amphora-aged red that captures Armenia’s 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.

Rediscover Armenia—one sip at a time.