Paul Hobbs, founder of Paul Hobbs Winery in Sebastopol, California, partnered with the Yacoubian brothers to craft a modern wine from an ancient variety, Areni, indigenous to the Vayots Dzor region of Armenia. Their vineyards are situated a stone’s throw away from the Areni-1 complex, which holds evidence of the oldest known large-scale wine production and the likely domestication of vines dating over 6,100 years ago. This medium-bodied red wine shows lively black cherry, cranberry, pomegranate flavors, sweet spice, and a dash of espresso. For a point of comparison, think Merlot blended with Oregon Pinot Noir. The palate has great structure, high acidity, velvet tannins, and a smooth and lingering finish.
Yacoubian-Hobbs, Vayots Dzor (Armenia) Areni 2016
By Miranda Franco