Sitting proudly as one of Greece's finest native grapes, Xinomavro is a distinctive, red varietal known for its vibrant colour, powerful tannins, and complex aromas. The name Xinomavro translates from Greek as 'acid black', reflecting the robust nature of this impressive grape.
Xinomavro is cultivated extensively in the northern regions of Greece, particularly in the areas around Naoussa and Amyndeon. The grape thrives amidst the cool, elevated vineyards of these regions, yielding berries that ripen late, helping to contribute to the high acid content in the resulting wines.
Every sip of a Xinomavro wine carries flavours that evolve as the liquid hits the tongue. Hints of red fruits such as strawberries and sour cherries reveal themselves first, followed by subtle undertones of dried herbs, olives, and often a touch of tomato. However, the terroir weaves its own narrative through the grape, and depending on the region, notes of spice, dark chocolate, or even sun-dried tomatoes can come forth. The resulting wine is typically high in tannins and acidity, giving it a robust structure that pairs brilliantly with rich meats and hearty stews.
Xinomavro wines display a remarkable bright red hue, particularly when they're young. As they age, they adopt a more tawny, brick-like colour, with some even transforming into a rich, auburn shade, carrying an aged version of their vibrant youth's prime notes.
In many ways, Xinomavro is reminiscent of Nebbiolo, one of Italy's premier red wine grapes. Both varietals produce a distinctly tannic, acidic wine with potential for ageing. These shared characteristics have earned the Xinomavro grape considerable esteem and accolades, and it continues to command the respect and admiration of oenophiles across the globe.
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