Meritage (2017)

About this wine

The 2017 Karamoor Estate Meritage is a harmonious blend of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, showcasing the potential of Pennsylvania's wine region. This wine offers aromas of ripe blackberries and dark cherries, complemented by subtle hints of oak and spice. On the palate, it delivers a medium-bodied experience with flavors of plum and blackcurrant, balanced by soft tannins and a touch of earthiness. The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving a pleasant impression. Karamoor Estate's commitment to quality is evident in this vintage, reflecting their dedication to producing exceptional wines from their meticulously maintained vineyard.

About the grape

Karamoor Estate's 2017 Meritage is crafted from Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, all grown on their 27-acre vineyard in Pennsylvania. Viticulturist Lucie Morton, known for her high-density planting methods, designed the vineyard to promote even ripening by planting 1,600 to 2,000 vines per acre, compared to the typical 600 to 800. This approach encourages the vines to focus on fully ripening a smaller crop, enhancing the quality of the grapes. The estate's commitment to meticulous vineyard practices, including hand-pruning and hand-harvesting, ensures the production of high-quality fruit for their wines.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Karamoor Estate's 2017 Meritage is a blend of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, showcasing the winery's dedication to crafting Bordeaux-style wines in Pennsylvania.
• 🏅 The 2017 Meritage received a Gold Medal with a score of 91 points at the 2023 Sunset International Wine Competition, highlighting its exceptional quality.
• 🎉 Karamoor Estate's commitment to excellence is evident in their numerous accolades, including being named the 2018 Pennsylvania Winery of the Year.
• 🌱 The winery's name, 'Karamoor,' is derived from the Turkish words 'kara' (black) and 'moor' (land), reflecting the rich, fertile soils of their vineyards.
• 🏡 Karamoor Estate's wines are estate-grown and produced, ensuring control over every aspect of the winemaking process, from vine to bottle.

Palate profile

Producer

Karamoor Estate's story began in the early 1980s when Nick and Athena Karabots, both first-generation Greeks, purchased the Oxmoor Estate and its adjoining Brookside Farm in Pennsylvania. They combined their surname with 'Oxmoor' to create 'Karamoor,' which loosely translates from Greek to 'my happiness.' In 2003, they envisioned transforming their 250-acre property into a world-class vineyard and winery, planting their first 12 acres of vines in 2006. Collaborating with renowned viticulturist Lucie Morton, they expanded the vineyard to 27 acres, cultivating varieties like Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and others. Since producing their first commercial vintage in 2008, Karamoor Estate has been dedicated to crafting Old World European-style wines that capture the unique essence of Pennsylvania soil.