Friday 30 April 2010

Sarafin from Turkey

30 April 2010: A friend brought back from Turkey a bottle of 2008 Sauvignon Blanc by Sarafin. Pale straw colour. Fragant nose with notes of lime blossom, citrus, green apple, gooseberry, lime peel overlying a lightly herbaceous (not like the in-your-face grassiness one sometimes finds in NZ Sauvignon Blanc) and spicy character. Light-medium body, with medium level of acidity, but lacking complexity on the palate. Perhaps a little short on the length of aftertaste. A fruity, aromatic and refreshing wine, easy to understand, which at 12.2% alcohol, reflects well its cool climate and terroir of the Saroz region.

The Chardonnay was next, from the same vintage. A more intense and rich nose of butter, pear tart, white peach, candied fruits and vanilla. Medium body, rich on the palate, but well-balanced with acidity. Slightly higher alcohol at 13.6%. Lovely finish.

I didn't have enough time to try the Merlot properly, but what I tried seemed promising - medium body, soft tannins, aromas of blackberries with some minty and eucalyptus character. Needed time to open up. Will need to try again.

Interesting experience and good effort from Turkey!

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