This distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from the Paşaeli vineyard in Kaynaklar, a village near İzmir on Turkey’s sun-drenched Aegean coast. Planted in 2002 at an elevation of 235 meters, the vineyard is managed under sustainable viticulture practices and trained using a Vertical Shoot Position (VSP) system with single cordon pruning.
The soil here is a complex mix of stony, gravelly, and red clay compositions, offering excellent drainage and structure. The Mediterranean climate brings long, hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters—ideal for slow ripening and the development of concentrated flavour and aromatic depth.
The grapes were hand-harvested between the 8th and 10th of September 2020. After destemming and gentle crushing, fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks over a three-week period, using only native yeasts to preserve site-specific character. Regular pump-overs enhanced extraction of colour and tannin. The wine was then matured for 12 months in one-year-old French oak barrels, followed by a minimum of three months of bottle aging to achieve balance and harmony.
In the glass, it presents a deep crimson hue with a vivid purple rim. The nose is layered and focused, unfolding aromas of pure cassis and black olive. A subtle addition of Cabernet Franc contributes freshness and a gentle leafy lift. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with firm yet polished tannins that express the vineyard’s terroir. Notes of dried fruit and spice add depth, leading to a long, elegant finish.
This wine was awarded 17.5 points by Julia Harding (jancisrobinson.com), a testament to its finesse, power, and place of origin.