Corvus Vinium Karalahna, The Black Pumpkin
There’s some argument here whether or not the grape Karalahna means ‘black pumpkin’ (per Wine Grapes) or if it’s a derivative of the Turkish word for ‘kale’, karalahana (with an extra ‘a’). Regardless, this native Turkish grape a variety rarely seen of its home island Bozcaada. Even on the island only two producers really feature it, Corvus and Çamlıbağ.
Bozcaada based winery Corvus is one of the most recognized names in wine in Turkey. When Reşit Söley decided to give up architecture for winemaking, he did it with a meticulousness and considerable energy. Söley threw himself into regenerating old island vineyards and planting new plots.
Now, nearly 20 years after founding Corvus, Söley makes a wide range of wines with both local and international grapes. I am gaining a growing appreciation for both the Bozcaada grapes and Söley’s wines. Particularly ones like the Corvus Vinium Karalahna which shows off the potential this grape has both for ageing and overall quality.
Corvus Vinium Karalahna 2012 Tasting Notes
A medium opaque garnet, the Corvus Vinium Karalahna surprised me with the depth of savoriness I found in the nose. Black olives sprinkled with dried herbs and the sweet smokiness of bacon jam peeled away to reveal a depth of dried sour cherries and figs.
Dusty tannins greeted me on the palate. Flavors of tart red fruits and purple flower petals accompanied the distinctive flavor of raisined wine grapes with their dried tannin skins and pips. Medium-bodied with moderate alcohol (13.7% abv), and a medium finish.
I’ve also had some more recent vintages of the Corvus Vinium. However, it was this older wine and the savoriness it developed that struck a deeper chord for me! I find that too often still Turkish wines that sweetness associated with lots of new oak which made this wine a surprise and a pleasure!