Vintage - 2018

Country - Turkey

Region - Aegean

Grape Varieties - Kalecik Karasi 100%

Alcohol by volume - 14.5%

Bottle - 75cl

Kayra produces premium wines from the Anatolia region -considered to be the birthplace of wine- and is at the cutting edge of winemaking. The wines are made from unique local varieties as well as international ones. These ancient indigenous varieties are being vinified using modern techniques and are producing award- winning results. The vines are planted in the best sites; and the vineyards and wineries have been significantly invested in. The Elaziğ winery, located in Eastern Anatolia, was established in 1942 and is dedicated entirely to the production of red wines. The Şarköy Winery in Thrace was built in 1996 and embraces a cellar for 1,200 barrels, reserved for the ageing of special cuvées. Under the guidance of consultant winemaker Daniel O'Donnell, it is Kayra's aim to reveal the true potential of Turkey and to bring their rich history and generous spirit to lovers of fine wine.

The wine was made from a blend of two regions: 80% of the grapes came from Denizli, in the Aegean region; 20% came from Ankara, in Central Anatolia which is the home of the Kalecik grape. The vineyards of the Denizli region, which borders Greece, experience a continental climate. The soils in the Denizli vineyard are cooling clay-loam, which are calcareous at high altitudes, providing good water retention and drainage for the vines. The vines are pruned according to the Cordon system and are planted in a north-south orientation. Situated in the middle of the country, Ankara has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters and has pebbly clay soils in the vineyard.

Kalecik Karasi means Black of Kalecik and is pronounced "kahle-djic-kah-ah-ser". These blue-purple, medium sized grapes were harvested at optimum phenolic maturity. The berries were cold soaked for three days, prior to a cool fermentation which took place in 100% stainless steel, followed by 100% malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged in stainless steel tanks with lees contact for five months, in order to express the character of this native varietal and to highlight the distinct structure, aromas and texture of this unique variety.

Kayra Kalecik Karası expresses its earthy roots, along with lively fruit aromas of ripe plums and ginger flower. On the palate there is a lightness of fruit, density of texture and soft, silky tannins.