Tasting Notes
Trinity Canyon Vineyards was founded in 2009 in the village of Aghavnadzor, in the heart of Armenia's Vayots Dzor wine region — the same territory that holds the Areni-1 cave, where archaeologists discovered the remains of the world's oldest known wine production site, dating back around 6,100 years. Three partners with a passion for wine established the estate a short distance from that discovery, with winemaker Artem Parseghyan guiding production since the first commercial vintage in 2013. The vineyards sit at 1,300 metres above sea level on volcanic soils; about 80% of production uses indigenous Armenian varieties. The Ancestors range is Trinity's most historically minded expression: wines made in traditional Armenian karas, the terracotta amphora vessels buried in the ground to maintain optimal temperatures, in a method that continued in village households well into the 20th century. Areni Ancestors is made from Areni Noir, the emblematic grape of Vayots Dzor, grown on own-rooted vines over 100 years old. Natural fermentation for over a month, then five months of maceration in underground karas. Unfined, unfiltered, no added sulphites. The result is a wine of real depth: subtle but firm tannins, vivid acidity and a long finish that balances the earthy complexity of the karas with the bright fruit and spice of old-vine Areni from high altitude. Good with red meats, grilled lamb, spiced dishes and hard cheeses.
Details:
- Grape variety: Areni Noir (100%), own-rooted vines over 100 years old, volcanic soils, 1,300m altitude, Aghavnadzor, Vayots Dzor, Armenia; organic and sustainable practices; first certified organic winery in Armenia
- Vinification: Natural fermentation for over a month; 5 months maceration in underground terracotta karas; no added sulphites; unfined and unfiltered
- Aging: In karas (Armenian underground amphora); no added sulphites
- Organoleptic description: Deep ruby; ripe black fruits, spice, leather, earthy complexity; subtle firm tannins, vivid acidity, long balanced finish
- Food pairing: Grilled lamb, red meats, spiced dishes, hard cheeses
