Self Isolation : Day # 36

2017 Yacoubian-Hobbs ‘Dry White Wine’

The small eastern European country of Armenia, landlocked by Georgia (north), Iran (south), Turkey (west), and Azerbaijan (east), is not the most well-known of wine producing countries. Despite being home to the oldest known winery (the Areni-1 cave is over 6,000 years old) the wines of Armenia don’t reach many of the planet’s consumers. Though a revival of historic vineyards is already underway, close to 80% of production still ends up as grape brandy, evidence of lingering Soviet influence. The Yacoubian brothers, along with help from Paul Hobbs, are seeking to revitalize the ancient tradition of winemaking by re-introducing high-quality techniques to the region. Based in the historic wine growing region of Vayots Dzor, the vines benefits from the warm, sunny days are mitigated by high altitude resulting in wines that are rich in flavor while retaining freshness and longevity.

Their white blend is comprised of four indigenous varietals - Voskehat, Khatuni, Qrdi, and Garan Demak - from vineyards around the twelfth-century village of Aghavnadzor in the Vayots Dzor. At over 4,000 feet above sea level these are some of the highest vineyards in Europe. Rich aromas of flowers, stone fruit, and citrus leap from the glass. The palate opens with mouthwatering acidity that is quickly balanced by a palate coating lees-y richness. Flavors of apricot, peach, lemon peel and sea salt, accented by hints of white pepper and blossom are tantalizing, coming together to form a delicious wine of place. A hypothetical combination of Chablis, demi-sec Vouvray, and Albariño, it is a sensory delight.