In late 2015, Sergiy Stakhovsky made the decision to venture into winemaking. Sergiy leased 20 hectares of wineries in Zakarpattia and begun the cultivation of various grape varieties including Merlot, Saperavi, Rose Traminer, Chardonnay, Riesling, Zweigelt, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Over the course of two years, the Stakhovsky Wines team dedicated their efforts to planting vines, installing pillars, clearing parcels, and replanting plots. In 2018, the first harvest was sent for maturation in French oak barrels.
Located near the Muzhievo village at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, the vineyards thrive in one of Ukraine’s premier wine regions. Zakarpattia has traditionally been recognised for its production of white wines, there has been a recent emergence of red wines crafted from varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Zweigelt.
The first vine plots were established in this area prior to the existence of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Situated at an elevation ranging from 100m to 200m, the winery benefits from optimal drainage for the vine plots. The predominant limestone composition of the terroir adds unique characteristics to Ace wines. Shielded from cold fronts by the Carpathian Mountains, this location still maintains a connection to the Pannonian Plain, allowing warm air to flow in from the west.
This Merlot offers flavours of plum, black cherry, and hints of blackberry jam. Aged for 16 months in French oak, it introduces notes of vanilla and a subtle spice. The result is a complex and well-balanced profile.
Food pairing suggestion: Ukrainian mushroom and pork roulade.
Did you know? Sergiy Stakhovsky is a former number one tennis player in Ukraine, owning 4 ATP singles titles and having even participated in the 2012 Olympics. As a professional, he firmly believed that alcohol had no place in the world of sports, and he didn’t even like its taste. However, it wasn’t until he was in France with the team and had some Bordeaux wine, which changed his perspective and sparked a love for the culture of wine.
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