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Areni
Areni is a thick-skinned red grape variety of ancient origin that is cultivated in the Transcaucasus where it makes full-bodied red wines, notably in Armenia and Turkey. Wines produced using the Areni grape are characterised by the firm, full flavor that is not inferior to robust European or American grape varieties.
The Areni grape is believed to come from the village of the same name in southwest Armenia which, along with Georgie, is considered to be the birthplace of viticulture. Often referred to Areni Noir, the grape is used in the traditional winemaking practices of the region, which involve the use of clay amphorae (called karasi in Armenia) which are buried in the ground with the opening left exposed to the air, and are used for both the ageing and fermenting the wine.
The area under vine of Areni is modest and much of the harvest is actually used for brandy. However, interest in the grape is increasing. With its thick skin, the grape is extremely disease-resistant and is particularly well adapted to strong diurnal temperature variation that can occur in areas such as the Transcaucasus.
The most notable Areni wine is Karasi, which produced by Zorah Wines and exploded the grape onto the international conscious when it was named in their “Top 10 wines of 2012” by Bloomberg.
Notable regions
The primary winemaking region in which the Arni grape is cultivated in Armenia. Often referred to as the "Darling of Armenia," it is the most important red wine grape in the country and is either blended or, in regions such as Vayots Dzor, used to make varietal wines.
Characteristics
Generally medium-bodied, the tannins in Areni wines are generally medium too, and acidity is medium to high.
The characteristic aromas of Areni wines are those of red and black fruit, with hints of cassis and spice. These are followed by flavours of cherry, raspberry, mulberry and blackberry.