Pasaeli, 6N Karasakiz Merlot, Turkey, 2014

Pasaeli, founded by Seyit Karagözoglu in 2000, was a real discovery at the recent Wines of Turkey tasting in London with wines from both international and indigenous varieties showing real personality. This is a blend of both; 18% Merlot with 82% Karasakiz (which translates as 'black chewing gum'). There are only 50 hectares of the latter in the whole of Turkey, planted near the ruins of Troy at an altitude of 550 metres on Mount Ida. It is aged for six months in French and US oak. The medium bodied palate combines sour cherry, rosehip and balsamic vinegar flavours alongside a tart, lip-smacking acidity and a forest-floor finish.