The secret’s in the oak

The history of wine spans thousands of years and is tightly weaved through the history of agriculture, cuisine, civilization and humanity itself. Recent evidence suggests the earliest known wine production occurred in Armenia. In 2011 archaeologists in Armenia announced the discovery of the world’s oldest-known wine production facility located an the Areni cave complex, which consisted of a shallow basin to press grapes, a vat for storage, and fermentation jar.

Armenia, from historic times, was noted for the quality of its wine. It is also regarded for quality brandy production and during the Middle Ages provided wine and alcoholic beverages to its neighbors for “medicinal purposes” who were prohibited under Islamic law to distill spirits. When it was part of the Soviet Union, Armenia supplied over 25 per cent of the brandy consumed within the Union.

Armenia’s continental climate, with warm dry summers, mild winters and a long growing season, allows for cultivating a large selection of varietals; however, what makes Armenian wine so unique is use of barrels made with Armenian oak. This imparts flavors of vanilla, chocolate and dried fruit. In addition to still wine, Armenia makes sparkling wines and the majority of its wine production is exported to Russia.

Azerbaijan was noted for its wine as early as 700BC and in many ways mirrors the story of Armenia, yet there are distinctive differences. Mountainous Azerbaijan borders on the Caspian Sea, which brings with it warm summers, mild winters and many microclimates.

The Islamic conquest put a complete halt to winemaking, so the Soviets encouraged the planting and cultivation of grain in place of vines. Upon the breakup of the Soviet Union, the main thrust was the development of the oilfields, so replanting vineyards was not a priority for this new country. Over the last 15 years there has been new investment and plantings of local and French varietals. And once again Azerbaijan strives to create the wines it was once renowned for.

THIS WEEK’S PICKS
Richard Karlo of Karlo Estates has released a unique wine called 5th Element. This 2010 Petit Verdot is one of the five grape varietials grown in Bordeaux. It takes its name, as it is among the last varietals to ripen and when it does it adds tannin, colour and flavor to the blend. It has greater stand-alone success in New Word climates. The fruit is Niagara-sourced and displays all the characteristics of this varietal. Bright claret with aromas of smoke and black currants; violet, tanned leather, anise and cigar box intertwine with the lingering acidity for an adeptly balanced finish.