Chamlija Papaskarası & Cabernet
In a country that straddles two continents…
Wines blending native Turkish grapes and international varieties are not only popular, but also really quite appropriate. Narince for example is often blended with Chardonnay or even Sauvignon Blanc. Red wine, which generally finds more popularity in Turkey than white, has even more east meets west blends. Doluca’s Karma series for example, Gülor’s The Bridge wines, Öküzgözü Şarapçılık, Urlice, Urla, Büyülübağ, Çamlıbağ and more create interesting blends with Turkish and European grapes.
Thracian winery Chamlija Bağılık ve Şarapçılık has also created several cross-continental wine blends. One of the very first Chamlija wines I ever had was the winery’s Viognier Narince (there’s also a Narince Albariño). Mustafa Çamlıca at Chamlija has long championed the Papaskarası grape. So, perhaps it was no surprise that he should add to his collection of domestic and international blends a wine combining Papaskarası with international grapes.
Chamlija Papaskarası & Cabernet 2014 Tasting Notes
The Chamlija Papaskarası & Cabernet combined 50% Papaskarası and 25% each Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
Unfiltered as many (if not all) Chamlija wines are, the wine nonetheless shone a clean, warm ruby color in the glass. Seductive and intriguing, the bouquet drew me in and didn’t let me go. Grilled meat accompanied by green bell pepper and eucalyptus. After allowing it to breath for a little while, the wine also gave up aromas of rich bramble fruit and spicy, freshly cracked black pepper.
Sipping revealed a flavor profile similar to the nose, but one that evolved progressively. It began with eucalyptus which ceded to smoke, spice, and pepper. Bramble fruit and savory herbs hit mid palate and carried through to a long, dark and savory finish.
Supple tannins with a medium full body and balance so impeccable I didn’t even notice that the alcohol was at 14%. I have loved many of Chamlijas wines but unquestionably this was one of my favorites and I was deeply disappointed to discover they’ve finished the stock.