Paşaeli Çalkarası “Merman” 2022
Discover Çalkarası, an indigenous Turkish red grape from Çal, Denizli, in Türkiye’s Aegean region. Paşaeli’s vineyard sits at approximately 900 metres, where 25-year-old bush vines grow in limestone-rich soils. Warm days and cool nights help preserve the grapes’ refreshing acidity.
The grapes are handpicked and fermented with native yeasts, including some whole bunches. Part of the wine then spends eight months in oak barrels, adding texture and complexity.
Light ruby in the glass, Merman offers delicate aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry and plum. The palate combines persistent fruit with very smooth tannins, finishing with refreshing acidity.
Grape: 100% Çalkarası
Region: Çal, Denizli — Aegean, Türkiye
Vintage: 2022
Style: Fresh, elegant dry red
Alcohol: 14%
Oak: Partially aged in oak barrels for eight months
Suggested Food Pairing: Köfte, roast chicken, charcuterie or mushroom pide.
Suggested Serve: Slightly chilled, approximately 14–16°C.
If you enjoy the red-fruit character and freshness of Pinot Noir or Gamay, Çalkarası is a Turkish variety worth exploring.