The Kalecik Karasi
Grape
A red grape variety indigenous to the Ankara region of Turkey, Kalecik Karasi is known for producing elegant, medium-bodied wines with a silky texture, moderate acidity, and flavors of red fruits, cherries, and spices. It is celebrated for its distinct aromatic profile and ability to produce wines that balance fruitiness with finesse.
Kalecik Karasi
Grape History
Kalecik Karasi is a red wine grape variety that is indigenous to Turkey. It is primarily grown in the Anatolia region of the country, with a significant presence in the Kalecik district of Ankara, from which it derives its name. This grape has a long history in the region, dating back centuries, and is considered one of the signature grape varieties of Turkey.
The exact origins of Kalecik Karasi are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been cultivated in the region for at least several hundred years. The grape is known for its thin skin, which gives wines made from it a light to medium body and a bright acidity. This makes it well-suited for producing elegant and aromatic red wines with flavors of red fruits, spices, and floral notes.
Kalecik Karasi is commonly used to produce varietal wines, showcasing the unique characteristics of the grape. It is also often blended with other indigenous Turkish grape varieties such as Öküzgözü or Boğazkere to create more complex and balanced wines.
In addition to its presence in Turkey, Kalecik Karasi is also being cultivated in small quantities in other countries such as Bulgaria and Azerbaijan. However, it remains predominantly associated with its homeland.
Despite its limited global presence, Kalecik Karasi has been gaining recognition in the international wine scene in recent years. Wine critics and enthusiasts have praised its elegant flavors, refreshing acidity, and food-friendly nature. Its unique profile sets it apart from more common international grape varieties, making it an attractive option for those looking to explore new and exciting wines.
As Turkish wines continue to gain popularity and recognition in the global market, the future looks promising for Kalecik Karasi. With its distinctive character and potential for producing high-quality wines, this grape variety is likely to play an increasingly important role in showcasing the unique terroir and winemaking traditions of Turkey on the world stage.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel