{"title":"Karas","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"karas-white-wine","title":"Karas White Wine","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKaras White Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e is a dry Armenian white blend of Kangun, Chardonnay, and Viognier at 13.5% ABV in a 750ml bottle. Produced from hand-harvested grapes grown in the volcanic soils of the Ararat Valley, this wine earned a Silver medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards for its 2015 vintage and has scored as high as 90\/100 from critics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: Armavir Region, Ararat Valley, Armenia  |  Blend: Kangun 50%, Chardonnay 40%, Viognier 10%  |  Winery: Karas\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eKaras Wines was established by Eduardo and Juliana Del Aguila Eurnekian in Armenia's Armavir region, with the winery name translating to \"amphora\" in Armenian — a reference to the sacred clay vessels used in Armenian winemaking for roughly 6,000 years. The grapes are grown in volcanic soils shaped by Mount Ararat's ancient volcanic activity and benefit from the consultancy of renowned Bordeaux winemaker Michel Rolland. Production follows a meticulous path: manual harvest, selection table sorting, gentle pressing, 24-hour decantation, and a controlled 20-day fermentation at 14–16°C in stainless steel tanks, preserving the fruit's freshness and aromatic clarity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with restrained floral and stone fruit notes, leaning toward the quieter, more delicate end of the aromatic spectrum. White peach and subtle citrus blossom emerge as the wine breathes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, the entry is dry and crisp with bright acidity that immediately recalls the mineral-rich volcanic terroir. Mid-palate, a smooth, medium-bodied texture develops with gentle orchard fruit and a touch of Viognier's rounded character. The Kangun grape contributes a distinctive tangy backbone not found in most international blends.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is clean, elegant, and moderately lengthy with lingering citrus peel and a subtle mineral undertone. Delicate acidity carries through, keeping the wine balanced and refreshing on the close.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Karas White\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe chilled to 8–10°C to highlight the wine's crisp acidity and aromatic nuance; this is a white that drinks beautifully on its own without needing any embellishment. For cocktail-curious drinkers, the blend's structure also works well in a \u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Spritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the bright acidity holds up against soda water and a citrus twist; a \u003cstrong\u003eKir\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the dry profile provides the ideal counterpoint to a splash of crème de cassis; and a \u003cstrong\u003eSangria Blanca\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the stone fruit aromatics and medium body contribute depth and balance to the fruit-forward punch.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing a wine-curious friend to Armenian winemaking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarm-weather dining on a patio or terrace\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern mezze spread\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to an adventurous wine drinker exploring emerging regions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Karas White taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas White is a dry, crisp white wine with bright acidity, moderate body, and flavors of stone fruit, citrus peel, and subtle minerality. The overall impression is smooth and elegant, with a flavor profile comparable to a well-made Pinot Grigio.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Karas White compare to Pinot Grigio?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both wines share a dry, acid-driven profile with clean, food-friendly character, but Karas White distinguishes itself through its use of the indigenous Armenian Kangun grape (50% of the blend) and a volcanic terroir that adds mineral complexity not typically found in standard Italian Pinot Grigio. The addition of Viognier also lends a slightly rounder mid-palate than most Pinot Grigios deliver.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Karas White good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its balanced acidity, medium body, and elegant finish make it a very approachable wine to drink by itself, especially when served well-chilled. The blend was designed for freshness and drinkability, which comes through clearly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Karas White made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas White is produced at the Karas winery in the Armavir region of Armenia's Ararat Valley, where the vineyards sit on ancient volcanic soils influenced by Mount Ararat. The winery was founded by Eduardo and Juliana Del Aguila Eurnekian and works with celebrated Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Karas White?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled chicken or fish benefit from the wine's acidity cutting through richness. Hummus and tabbouleh echo the wine's Mediterranean character. Mild goat cheese complements the citrus and mineral notes. Sushi and lighter seafood dishes pair naturally with the crisp, clean profile. Fresh salads with stone fruit and nuts mirror the wine's aromatic qualities.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Karas White come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas White is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Karas White worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas White positions as a mid-range value wine that punches above its weight — a Silver medal from the Decanter World Wine Awards and scores reaching 90\/100 place it alongside wines that often cost considerably more. For drinkers seeking quality and a genuine point of difference from mainstream whites, it represents strong value.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Karas White?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat sets this wine apart is its blend of the indigenous Armenian Kangun grape with Chardonnay and Viognier — a combination rarely seen outside Armenia that delivers a flavor profile both familiar and genuinely distinct. The volcanic Ararat Valley terroir contributes a mineral acidity that reflects 6,000 years of Armenian viticultural heritage, while Michel Rolland's involvement signals serious winemaking ambition. With Decanter and Mundus Vini Silver medals behind it and critic scores reaching 90 points, Karas White stands as one of the most accessible and compelling introductions to Armenian wine available today.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Karas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837976375465,"sku":"36092","price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Karas-White-Wine__52279.jpg?v=1730502754"},{"product_id":"karas-red-wine","title":"Karas Red Wine","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKaras Red Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 750ml Armenian red blend of Syrah, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc bottled at 14% ABV from the Armavir region. The 2015 vintage earned a Silver medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards and a Silver at Mundus Vini, with critic scores reaching 88\/100 — serious recognition for a wine region most drinkers have yet to explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 14%  |  Origin: Armavir, Armenia  |  Blend: Syrah (35%), Malbec (35%), Cabernet Franc (30%)  |  Winery: Karas Wines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKaras Wines takes its name from the Armenian word for amphora — the clay vessel central to Armenian winemaking for over 6,000 years. The vineyards sit in the Armavir province in the shadow of Mount Ararat, planted in volcanic soils composed of basalt-derived clay, limestone, carbonate, volcanic tuff, and alluvial stones. The winery works with legendary Bordeaux consultant Michel Rolland, whose influence shows in the blend's structured tannin framework and polished extraction. The cuvée combines Syrah (35%), Malbec (35%), and Cabernet Franc (30%), drawing international grape varieties through distinctly Armenian terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with dark cherry and ripe raspberry before shifting into pomegranate, smoked meat, and lavender. Dustings of black pepper and sweet baking spices emerge as the wine opens in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is juicy and fruit-forward, with black cherries and blackberries coating the palate. At mid-palate, the wine builds toward medium-to-full body with plump, jammy dark fruit layered alongside clove, nutmeg, and cracked pepper. Firm, fruit-coated tannins provide structure without austerity, and a ribbon of chocolate weaves through the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-long, with chewy tannins that grip gently and recede into lingering notes of grilled herbs, sweet spice, and dark berry. The acidity stays balanced throughout, keeping the wine fresh despite its density.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Karas Red\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePour at cellar temperature (60–65°F) and give it 20 to 30 minutes in a wide-bowled glass to let the smoky, herbal layers develop fully. It drinks well neat but responds beautifully to a slight chill in warmer months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo:\u003c\/strong\u003e The jammy fruit and firm tannins stand up to cola and ice, making a surprisingly compelling casual serve.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSangria:\u003c\/strong\u003e The dark berry intensity and spice profile anchor a red sangria with citrus, pomegranate seeds, and brandy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Spritzer:\u003c\/strong\u003e A splash of sparkling water opens up the fruit and tempers the body for lighter drinking occasions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing adventurous wine drinkers to Armenian winemaking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with a grilled lamb dinner or Mediterranean feast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to someone who appreciates emerging wine regions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding out the international section of a home cellar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Karas Red taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas Red delivers juicy black cherry and blackberry fruit with layers of smoked meat, lavender, cracked pepper, and baking spices, wrapped in firm but approachable tannins. The overall impression is medium-to-full bodied, fruit-forward, and structured.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Karas Red compare to La Posta Tinto Red Blend?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are international red blends built around Malbec and Syrah, but Karas draws from Armenia's volcanic soils rather than Argentina's alluvial terroir, producing a smokier, more spice-driven profile. In a documented blind tasting, the Karas Classic Red was unanimously preferred 8–0 over the La Posta Tinto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Karas Red good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its balanced acidity, layered spice, and fruit-coated tannins make it a rewarding neat pour, especially with 20 to 30 minutes of air in a wide glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Karas Red made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas Red is produced by Karas Wines in the Armavir province of Armenia, in vineyards located in the shadow of Mount Ararat on volcanic soils rich in basalt, limestone, and volcanic tuff.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Karas Red?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled lamb chops bring out the wine's smoky, herbal side. Beef khorovats (Armenian barbecue) mirrors the wine's regional character. Aged hard cheeses like Pecorino complement its firm tannins. Eggplant-based dishes and roasted red pepper dips echo the wine's earthy fruit, while dark chocolate with sea salt highlights the cocoa and spice undertones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Karas Red come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas Red is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Karas Red worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Karas Red positions as a mid-range red blend that consistently over-delivers for its price tier, earning Silver medals at Decanter and Mundus Vini and scoring up to 88 points from critics — strong credentials for a wine in this segment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Karas Red?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArmenia is one of the oldest winemaking civilizations on earth, and Karas Wines channels that heritage through a modern lens shaped by Michel Rolland's consulting expertise. The volcanic terroir of Armavir imparts a mineral backbone and smoky complexity that sets this blend apart from similarly priced Syrah-Malbec wines from the New World. Multiple international awards — including Silvers at both Decanter and Mundus Vini — confirm the wine's quality isn't just novelty. For drinkers looking beyond the usual suspects in red blends, this is a genuinely distinctive bottle rooted in 6,000 years of winemaking tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Karas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837976408233,"sku":"36091","price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Karas-Red-Wine__46743.jpg?v=1730502757"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/karas.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}