One hundred percent Xinomavro, hand-picked and treated to six months in French oak, about one-third new. The garnet ruby robe emits a scent of earth and red soil; it smells like wet red rocks, resinous herbs, forest floor, and clay. The palate cuts with notes of cranberry and red grapefruit, and the oak is minimal, very restrained. The wine reads as red acid, earth, and minerals. And it’s 12.5 percent alcohol—so uncommon now in red wine.
Pair it with rare steak, cured meats (the acidity will cut the fat), aged cheeses—especially hard sheep’s milk, whose funk will be a great match for the wine’s earthiness—and rich nut or mushroom dishes.
12.5% abv | $15 (sample) Imported by Fantis Imports
