Alpha Ecosystem Xinomavro Reserve Vieilles Vignes, 14%, 0.75 L

Classification – dry red wine, PDO Amyndeon.

Grape variety – Xinomavro 100%.

Vineyard – single block “Barba Yannis”, 3.71 ha, on the Amyndeon plateau at 647 m. The vineyard consists of more than 90-year-old, ungrafted bush vines on sandy and sandy-clay soils with excellent drainage.

Vinification – destemming, light crushing and cold soak with skin contact, followed by alcoholic fermentation with indigenous yeasts from the specific block. The wine remains on the lees for 18 months with regular stirring, then ages for 24 months in new Allier and Bertrange French oak and a further 12 months in bottle before release.

Appearance – bright ruby.

Aroma – complex aromas of small red berries, sun-dried tomato, strawberry and dark cherry, with licorice and spice.

Palate – full-bodied, with rich fruit depth, blackberry and plum, herbaceous notes and well-integrated oak. Solid, velvety tannins lead to a long, persistent finish.

Food pairing – barbecued red meats, roasted lamb, spicy sausages, rabbit stew and mature, slightly spicy cheeses.

Serving temperature – 16–18 °C.