Zorah Yeraz Areni Noir Vayots Dzor

Areni Wine Region, Armenia

The more accessible sibling to Karasi — 'Yeraz' means 'dream' in Armenian. Sourced from multiple old-vine parcels at different altitudes, fermented in stainless and aged in French barriques for 12 months. Lighter and more immediately approachable than Karasi: fresh cherry, raspberry, mountain herbs, and a clean pomegranate acidity. An excellent introduction to Armenian wine.

Pairing intelligence

• casual: The wine's fresh red fruit and clean herbal character bridges the flaky pastry's richness and the fresh cheese filling's lactic tang.
• main: Areni's freshness and mountain herb character is the natural companion to herb-marinated chicken in the Armenian tradition.