93 Points James Suckling

Zara Muradyan Wines Red Reserve Areni 2021

·         Source of Grapes: 100% Areni from the Aghavnadzor village in the Vayots Dzor region, grown at an average altitude of 1600 meters above sea level.

·         Harvest: Grapes are picked in late October and early November.

·         Maceration: 24 days

·         Barrel Aging: 12 months

·         Type of Barrel Used: 225-liter Medium (M) toasted tight grain Armenian (Artsakh) oak

·         Color: Ruby color

·         Nose: The wine presents a lovely, fragrant nose with a wide spectrum of red fruit aromas, including ripe cherries, red currants, and a hint of wild strawberries. These fruit notes are beautifully complemented by subtle undertones of dark chocolate, vanilla, and a touch of spice, all derived from its 12-month aging in Armenian oak.

·         Mouthfeel: On the medium-to-full-bodied palate, velvety tannins and lively acidity interlock seamlessly, creating a balanced and harmonious structure. The wine’s texture is smooth yet robust, with layers of red berries and a whisper of toasted oak adding depth and complexity.

·         Finish: The finish is long and elegant, with the emphatic tannins gently tapering off, leaving a lasting impression of dark chocolate and sweet vanilla, along with a lingering hint of ripe red fruit.

·         James Suckling:  ZARA MURADYAN WINES ARENI VAYOTS DZOR DRY RED RESERVE 2021 Lovely fragrant nose with a wide spectrum of red fruit. The velvety tannins and lively acidity interlock very neatly on the medium to full-bodied palate. Long, elegant finish in spite of the emphatic tannins. From this producer’s highest altitude vineyards. Picked in late October and early November. Matured in Armenian oak for 12 months. Drink or hold.  

Founded in 2013, Zara Muradyan Wines is a family-owned winery based in Armenia, dedicated to crafting premium wines that celebrate the country's rich winemaking heritage. The winery specializes in producing exceptional wines from indigenous Armenian grape varietals, such as Areni and Voskehat, which are meticulously aged in French and Artsakh oak barrels to enhance their character and depth.

Zara Muradyan also serves as the Executive Director of the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia, established in 2016. The foundation's mission is to preserve and promote Armenia's rich cultural and historical winemaking legacy, enhance the country's reputation for quality wine production, and increase the global competitiveness and export of Armenian wines.

Through her leadership and dedication, Zara Muradyan continues to champion the revival of Armenia's ancient winemaking traditions while positioning Armenian wines on the world stage.