2017 Yacoubian-Hobbs Dry Areni Rind, Vayots Dzor, Armenia

In the village of Rind, the Areni grape thrives in rich volcanic and limestone soils. Hot summers are tempered by cooler temperatures at these high elevation sites, and water is provided by the melting snow caps atop Mount Ararat.

Our Areni wine expresses the unique characteristics of this ancient variety with the focus and purity that modern winemaking techniques provide.

VINEYARD SOURCE: Rind, Vayots Dzor

VARIETAL COMPOSITION:

• 95% Areni - an ancient variety indigenous to Armenia, Areni has adapted perfectly to the high altitude, mountainous region of Vayots Dzor, where the vines thrive on the rocky, mineral-rich, volcanic soils. This late-ripening grape makes fresh, elegant, structured wines with bright red fruit flavors, and a characteristic black pepper spice.

• 5% Tozot - a rare indigenous Armenian variety with dense, conical bunches, medium-sized berries, and medium skin thickness. Its name translates to “dusty,” and is derived from the berries being covered in heavy bloom. It contributes crispness to the finished wine.

WINE PROFILE: Elegant aromas of morello cherry and strawberry mingle with baking spices and clove in this lighter bodied red wine. On the palate, bright notes of pomegranate, and white pepper are balanced by refreshing acidity, and a clean finish.

ELEVATION: over 1,300 meters (4,000 feet)

WINEMAKING: fermented and aged 20 months in stainless steel tanks