Sevilen Vendage 76
Often in Turkey I buy wines from winemakers or wineries I like whether or not I want the actual wine. Such was the case with the Sevilen Vendage 76. I was initially excited to see what I felt pretty sure was a new release from the winery. And then I looked at the label. Another Bordeaux blend. Cabernet Franc dominant which is unusual here. But how much more wannabe Bordeaux can I handle?
And yet, I do really like Sevilen’s winemaker. Sibel Çoban Ürentay is one of Turkey’s rock star female winemakers. While I’m not much of a feminist, I do hate articles about women that have to describe their clothes or what they look like. I’m going to do that anyway though, because when I met Çoban I was so taken aback. Sevilen is one of Turkey’s largest and oldest wineries. I’d built up this woman in charge of it all in my head so much that I expected a large person and a forceful nature. I got neither of those. While I don’t know her exact height, Çoban stands significantly shorter than my 5’11”. Significantly. And instead of a commanding personality I got humble, charming, energetic for sure, but quiet energy.
So, yeah. I bought another wannabe Bordeaux. And damn me if I didn’t really enjoy it.
Sevilen Vendage 76, 2018
As I said, Cabernet Franc leads the blend with 65% along with 20% Merlot and 15% Petit Verdot raised for 14 months in French oak.
Deeply colored ruby with a paler purple rim, the nose sang like a really good Italian baritone. Rich black fruits, blackberry, purple flowers, and vanilla swirled around a core that hinted at green bell pepper while black and red chili peppers sparked along the edges. The palate revealed soft and plushy tannins, mouthwatering acidity and a long finish all the while unfolding flavors of blackberry, plum, flowers, and vanilla bean.
This wine was for me, an exercise in why one should let wine breathe. Which I so rarely have the foresight and/or patience to do. I thought this was nice enough but it didn’t blow my hair back. So I corked the remains and set it aside. Two days later I drank a revelation. With that time, the Vendage 76 unveiled a deeper and more expressive personality with tons of black pepper followed by date syrup, charred wood, and rich carob.
Reminder to Andrea to let your wines breathe!!