Last month the City of Los Angeles proclaimed April as Armenian History Month and on April 24th, the 106th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, President Biden acknowledged the horrific event. While many of us commemorate this day, it is vital that we also celebrate the resilience and strength of the Armenian people.
Here’s an interesting fact…. while wine history goes back millions of years, ancient wine production evidence dates between 6,000 BC and 4,000 BC, and includes an ancient winery site in Armenia. The oldest known winery in the world is located in a cave in the mountains of Armenia and it is now known as the Areni-1 Cave.
To celebrate the Armenian heritage, I’d like to share two great Armenian wines.
2015 Highland Cellars Koor Reserve
This reserve is a traditional blend of indigenous Armenian varietals, grown in high elevation vineyards of Vayots Dzor and Nagorno Karabakh. The primary and signature grape, Areni It is elegant, fruity and subtle. It is well balanced with a more tannic grape, Sireni, giving Koor its defined structure. Koor Reserve has been aged in French oak for over 20 months, giving the wine for complexity and character. Areni grapes’ natural acidity keeps the wine fresh, fruity and vibrant, making it a perfect match for a wide variety of food pairings.
2018 Highland Cellars Koor Voskehat
Voskehat is the queen of Armenian grapes. It is difficult to grow as it is very susceptible to disease but once successfully harvested Voskehat offers a fascinating bouquet of aromas. Its aromatic profile can range from minerals and stone fruits to tropical notes and spiciness. Expressively tropical, with hints of pineapple and mango with subtle mineralic notes which come from the unique soil of the region – a combination of volcanic sedimentary and limestone. Enjoy on its own or paired with cheese platters, appetizers, seafood and fruit or vanilla-based desserts.
Kenadz!
Rosa Chalekian 