Grape Variety:
100% Zakynthino
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
"Zakynthino" from Sclavos Winery is a distinctive white wine crafted exclusively from the rare Zakynthino grape, native to the Ionian Islands of Greece. Sclavos Winery, situated on the island of Cephalonia, is renowned for its commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture, producing wines that authentically express the unique terroir of the region.
Cultivation:
The Zakynthino vines are cultivated in the Elios area of southern Cephalonia, at altitudes ranging from 50 to 150 meters. The vineyards, aged over 40 years, are planted in loamy clay soils with southwestern exposure, benefiting from the influence of the Ainos mountain range. This microclimate provides excellent conditions for the development of the Zakynthino grape. Sclavos Winery practices certified organic and biodynamic viticulture, emphasizing sustainability and environmental harmony.
Vinification:
The grapes are hand-harvested in the second fortnight of August. Vinification follows biodynamic principles, including spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The wine undergoes fermentation and maturation in stainless steel tanks, with a stay on fine lees for about seven months without the addition of preservatives. Bottling is done without filtration, adhering to natural winemaking practices that preserve the wine's authenticity.
Flavor Characteristics:
"Zakynthino" presents a bright, almost orange color in the glass. The nose is characterized by aromas of ripe peaches, honey, and citrus peel, complemented by notes of dried apricot and almond. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a rich texture, balanced acidity, and flavors reminiscent of raisins, caramel, and orange bitters. The wine finishes with a long, savory aftertaste, showcasing its explosive minerality.
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs excellently with cured meats, spiced Asian dishes, roast white meats, and aged cheeses, enhancing the dining experience with its vibrant acidity and complex flavor profile.
Uniqueness:
"Zakynthino" stands out for its expression of the rare Zakynthino grape, showcasing the varietal's potential when cultivated in the unique terroir of Cephalonia. The winery's commitment to organic and biodynamic practices further enhances the wine's reflection of its environment, making it a distinctive addition to Greece's diverse wine landscape.
Grape Variety:
100% Mavrodaphne of Kefalonia
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
Orgion from Sclavos Winery is a pioneering dry red wine crafted exclusively from the indigenous Mavrodaphne grape, traditionally associated with sweet wines. Sclavos Winery, located in Lixouri on the island of Cephalonia, Greece, is renowned for its commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture, producing wines that authentically express the unique terroir of the region.
Cultivation:
The PDO Mavrodaphne of Kefalonia (ΠΟΠ Μαυροδάφνη Κεφαλληνίας) vines are cultivated in the Paliki peninsula of Cephalonia, at altitudes ranging from 50 to 150 meters. Mavrodaphne of Kefalonia is an indigenous red grape variety from the Greek island of Cephalonia. Known for its deep color and aromatic complexity, it traditionally produces sweet, fortified wines but has gained recognition for its potential in dry red wines. The vineyards, aged over 40 years, are planted in diverse soils, from clayey-calcareous to limestone, and are interspersed with uncultivated areas and olive groves, promoting biodiversity. Sclavos Winery practices certified organic and biodynamic viticulture, emphasizing sustainability and environmental harmony.
Vinification:
The grapes are hand-harvested in the first fortnight of September. Vinification follows biodynamic principles, including spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts and extended maceration. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and matures for 12 months in French oak barrels of varying capacities (300 to 500 liters). Bottling is done without filtration or additional treatments, adhering to natural winemaking practices that preserve the wine's authenticity.
Flavor Characteristics:
Orgion presents a deep ruby color in the glass. The nose is moderate, with aromas of chocolate, plum, raspberry, coffee beans, cocoa, and tobacco. Cinnamon and earthy notes of fresh soil complement the bouquet. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, with velvety tannins and refreshing acidity. Flavors of chocolate, plum, and dried fig stand out, with chocolate persisting in the long finish.
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs excellently with cooked red meats, traditional Cephalonian meat pies, game, or aged yellow cheeses, complementing its rich and complex profile.
Uniqueness:
Orgion is notable for being one of the first dry wines made from Mavrodaphne of Kefalonia, a grape traditionally used for sweet wines. Sclavos Winery's commitment to organic and biodynamic practices further enhances the wine's reflection of its unique terroir, making it a standout expression of Cephalonia's winemaking heritage.
Grape Variety:
100% Robola
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
Vino di Sasso from Sclavos Winery is a distinguished white wine crafted exclusively from the indigenous Robola grape, native to the island of Cephalonia, Greece. The name "Vino di Sasso," meaning "Wine of the Stone," was first coined by English commissioner Napier, reflecting the wine's profound minerality derived from the limestone-rich soils of its vineyards.
Cultivation:
The Robola vines, aged between 90 to 100 years, are cultivated as bush vines at an altitude of 700 meters in the Robola zone of Cephalonia. The vineyards are situated in limestone-rich soils near the sea, benefiting from a Mediterranean climate that imparts a unique character to the grapes. Sclavos Winery practices certified organic and biodynamic viticulture, emphasizing sustainability and environmental harmony.
Vinification:
Hand-harvested grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The wine matures on its lees in stainless steel tanks, enhancing its complexity and mouthfeel. Bottling is done without filtration, adhering to natural winemaking practices that preserve the wine's authenticity.
Flavor Characteristics:
Vino di Sasso exhibits a bright lemon-green color. The nose is intense, with aromas of citrus fruits such as tangerine and grapefruit, complemented by notes of pear, peach, and floral hints against a mineral background. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with crisp acidity, offering concentrated and juicy flavors of lemon, orange, grapefruit, peach, and bergamot, alongside pronounced mineral notes. The wine finishes with a long aftertaste, featuring a subtle honeyed note.
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs excellently with seafood dishes, grilled fish, and Mediterranean cuisine, enhancing the dining experience with its vibrant acidity and mineral backbone.
Uniqueness:
Vino di Sasso stands out for its expression of the Robola grape, showcasing the varietal's potential when cultivated in limestone-rich soils. The winery's commitment to organic and biodynamic practices further enhances the wine's reflection of its unique terroir.
Grape Variety:
100% Mavrodaphne
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
Alchymiste Rosé from Sclavos Winery is a distinctive rosé crafted from the indigenous Mavrodaphne grape. Sclavos Winery, located in Lixouri, Kefalonia, is renowned for its commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture, producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Ionian Islands.
Cultivation:
The Mavrodaphne vines are over 50 years old, cultivated at an altitude of 100 meters in limestone and clay-rich soils near the sea. The Mediterranean climate, influenced by proximity to the sea, contributes to the grapes' unique flavor profile. The vineyards are managed according to organic and biodynamic principles, emphasizing sustainability and environmental harmony.
Vinification:
Harvested in late August, the grapes undergo a careful vinification process to preserve their aromatic character. The wine is bottled without further intervention, adhering to natural winemaking practices that avoid additives and filtration, resulting in a pure expression of the Mavrodaphne grape.
Flavor Characteristics:
Alchymiste Rosé exhibits a light cherry color with a nose of red fruit, wild berries, and a hint of sweetness. On the palate, it offers balanced acidity and a well-rounded aftertaste, with flavors of red fruit and subtle wild berry notes.
Food Pairing:
This rosé pairs excellently with grilled seafood, light salads, and Mediterranean dishes, complementing its fresh and fruity profile.
Uniqueness:
Alchymiste Rosé stands out for its use of the Mavrodaphne grape in a rosé style, showcasing the versatility of this indigenous varietal. The winery's adherence to organic and biodynamic practices further enhances the wine's expression of its unique terroir.