Grape Variety
Mandilaria 70%, Savatiano 15% and Cabernet Sauvignon 15%
Annual Production
Approximately 4,000 bottles per year.
Introduction
The Aoton Winery's "Lola Traditional Appellation" is a distinctive dry rosé Retsina that exemplifies the rich winemaking heritage of Attica, Greece. Crafted from a blend of Mandilaria (74%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (26%), this wine offers a harmonious fusion of traditional and contemporary elements.
Cultivation
The grapes are sourced from organic vineyards in Peania, Attica, with a planting density of 3,330 vines per hectare. The region experiences a temperate Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Vinification
After a night harvest, the grapes are transported to the winery in small crates to maintain freshness. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts, and 0.4 g/L of hand-collected Aleppo pine resin is added, imparting the characteristic Retsina flavor. The wine undergoes 8 months of aging on fine lees, enhancing its complexity.
Flavor Characteristics
The wine presents a deep pomegranate hue. On the nose, it reveals aromas of pine, mastic, pine nuts, dried strawberry, chamomile, with notes of bergamot and orange. The palate is medium-bodied with a slight tannic structure, lively acidity, and a long aftertaste.
Food Pairing
This versatile wine pairs well with subtle Asian flavors, noodles, seafood, and savory-sweet dishes.
Uniqueness
The Aoton Winery's "Lola Traditional Appellation" offers a unique tasting experience that bridges the ancient tradition of Retsina with modern winemaking techniques, resulting in a wine that is both authentic and innovative.
Grape Variety
90% Xinomavro, 10% Assyrtiko
Annual Production
N/A
Introduction:
The Karanika Extra Brut Cuvée Spéciale is a premium sparkling wine from Domaine Karanika, located in the Amyntaio region of Macedonia, Greece. Made predominantly from the indigenous Xinomavro grape, this wine showcases the region's ability to produce world-class sparkling wines. The cuvée has been crafted with the highest attention to detail, reflecting the distinct terroir of its origin.
Cultivation:
The vineyards are located in the cooler region of Amyntaio, which is known for its unique combination of elevation and climate, ideal for growing the Xinomavro and Assyrtiko varieties. The soils are sandy, and the vineyards are partly biodynamic, ensuring minimal intervention in the farming practices.
Vinification:
The wine is produced using the traditional méthode champenoise. Whole bunches are pressed in a basket press, with fermentation taking place at controlled temperatures between 18–22°C. The wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, where it is aged for 12 months on the lees, before being disgorged and released with minimal sulfur and no chemical additives.
Flavor Characteristics:
The Karanika Extra Brut Cuvée Spéciale is a sparkling wine with a delicate pinkish-yellow hue and vibrant, persistent bubbles. The nose is expressive with aromas of lime, pear, and strawberry, enhanced by a yeasty complexity. On the palate, the wine is fresh and creamy with a well-balanced acidity, offering flavors of strawberries and a touch of walnut peel. The finish is long, complex, and dry, showcasing the naturally high acidity of the Xinomavro grape.
Food Pairing:
This sparkling wine pairs wonderfully with seafood, grilled vegetables, and light pasta dishes. Its crisp acidity and complexity make it a versatile pairing for a variety of meals, especially those with a delicate yet rich flavor profile.
Uniqueness:
What sets the Karanika Extra Brut Cuvée Spéciale apart is its use of the indigenous Xinomavro grape in a sparkling format, which is rare and unique in the world of sparkling wines. The wine’s biodynamic cultivation, minimal intervention in winemaking, and the long aging process add to its distinctiveness, making it a world-class expression of Greek terroir.
Grape Variety
100% Muscat of Alexandria
Annual Production
Approximately 3,000 bottles
Introduction
Terra Ambera Amphora is an organic, natural orange wine from Garalis Winery, situated on the volcanic soils of Lemnos Island in Greece. Crafted entirely from Muscat of Alexandria grapes, this wine undergoes a four-month skin contact fermentation in a reclaimed amphora, imparting its distinctive amber hue and complex flavor profile.
Cultivation
The vineyards are located at an elevation of 150 meters on Lemnos Island, characterized by dry, warm summers with limited rainfall and temperatures ranging from 0–39°C. The volcanic soils are poor in nutrients, with some limestone, contributing to the wine's unique minerality. The vines, planted between 1972 and 2015, are cultivated organically, emphasizing minimal intervention to preserve the natural expression of the grapes.
Vinification
Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure optimal quality. The wine undergoes a four-month skin contact fermentation in a reclaimed amphora, buried underground, with spontaneous fermentation and no temperature control. After fermentation, it is aged for two months, bottled without any additions except minimal sulfites, and without fining or filtration, maintaining its natural integrity.
Flavor Characteristics
Terra Ambera Amphora presents a vibrant amber color. The nose is aromatic, offering notes of orange peel, quince jelly, dried apricot, frankincense, sage, mountain tea, and flower potpourri. On the palate, it is dry and medium-bodied, featuring flavors of orchard fruits such as apples and pears, complemented by high minerality and a light tannic structure reminiscent of unsweetened black iced tea.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs excellently with sautéed shiitake mushrooms, risotto with mushroom and thyme, aged yellow cheeses, goat spit, snails, and meat pies.
Uniqueness
Terra Ambera Amphora stands out for its use of the Muscat of Alexandria grape in an orange wine style, a technique that imparts its distinctive amber hue and complex flavor profile. The organic cultivation on volcanic soils and minimal intervention winemaking methods, including fermentation in a reclaimed amphora, further enhance its uniqueness, offering a natural and expressive taste of Lemnos Island.
Grape Variety
100% Muscat of Alexandria
Annual Production
Approximately 13,000 bottles
Introduction
Terra Amberra is an organic, natural orange wine from Garalis Winery, situated on the volcanic soils of Lemnos Island in Greece. Crafted entirely from Muscat of Alexandria grapes, this wine undergoes a five-day skin contact fermentation, imparting its distinctive amber hue and complex flavor profile.
Cultivation
The vineyards are located at an elevation of 150 meters on Lemnos Island, characterized by dry, warm summers with limited rainfall and temperatures ranging from 0–39°C. The volcanic soils are poor in nutrients, with some limestone, contributing to the wine's unique minerality. The vines, planted between 1972 and 2015, are cultivated organically, emphasizing minimal intervention to preserve the natural expression of the grapes.
Vinification
Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure optimal quality. The wine undergoes a five-day skin contact fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 21°C. After fermentation, it is aged for 2.5 months in stainless steel tanks. The wine is bottled with minimal sulfites, without fining or filtration, maintaining its natural integrity.
Flavor Characteristics
Terra Ambera presents a vibrant amber color. The nose is aromatic, offering notes of tangerine, honey, and white flowers, with slight oxidative nuances. On the palate, it is dry and medium-bodied, featuring flavors of orchard fruits such as apples and pears, complemented by high minerality and a light tannic structure reminiscent of unsweetened black iced tea.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs excellently with sautéed shiitake mushrooms, risotto with mushroom and thyme, aged yellow cheeses, goat spit, snails, and meat pies.
Uniqueness
Terra Ambera stands out for its use of the Muscat of Alexandria grape in an orange wine style, a technique that imparts its distinctive amber hue and complex flavor profile. The organic cultivation on volcanic soils and minimal intervention winemaking methods further enhance its uniqueness, offering a natural and expressive taste of Lemnos Island.
Grape Variety:
Agiorgitiko
Annual Production:
Approximately 2,000 liters
Introduction:
"Agiorgitiko Red" from Halkia Wines is a classic and natural expression of Greece's most planted red grape, Agiorgitiko. Crafted by organic female grower Anna Halkia in Nemea, the birthplace of this variety, the wine embodies a rustic and approachable character.
Cultivation:
The vineyards are situated in Nemea, Peloponnese, at an altitude of 350 meters, featuring clay and limestone soils. Established in 2002, the vines are cultivated under certified organic practices, with a planting density of 1m x 2.4m and yields of 1.5–2 kg per plant. Drip irrigation is utilized during extreme heat periods, and treatments are limited to copper and sulfur applications 2–4 times during the growing season. Harvesting is conducted manually.
Vinification:
The wine is produced from free-run juice, undergoing wild fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at 16–18℃, with an initial day at 6℃. Fermentation lasts for 13 days, followed by natural completion of malolactic fermentation. The wine matures for 3.5–4 months in stainless steel tanks after lees removal, without any clarification or filtration, resulting in a pure and unadulterated expression of Agiorgitiko.
Flavor Characteristics:
"Agiorgitiko Red" exhibits a deep red color with aromatic notes of red and black fruits, complemented by hints of baking spices and umami. On the palate, it presents a medium body with velvety tannins and balanced acidity, culminating in a moderate finish.
Food Pairing:
This versatile wine pairs excellently with roasted vegetables, light meats, and a variety of cheeses. It is also delightful when served slightly chilled, making it suitable for warm-weather enjoyment.
Uniqueness:
The wine's natural vinification process, combined with the organic cultivation of Agiorgitiko in its native region, contributes to its unique character. The dedication of winemaker Anna Halkia to sustainable and minimal-intervention practices results in a wine that authentically reflects the terroir of Nemea.
Grape Variety:
Assyrtiko
Annual Production:
1,800 liters
Introduction:
Amber Assyrtiko from Halkia Wines is a striking orange wine crafted in the Nemea region of the Peloponnese. Made from 100% Assyrtiko, this organic wine showcases the unique character of the variety through meticulous natural winemaking.
Cultivation:
The vineyards are located in the appellation of PGI Corinth, where certified organic farming practices are employed. The vines thrive in the region’s Mediterranean climate, benefiting from abundant sunshine and cool breezes, which contribute to the grape's intense aromatic profile.
Vinification:
This wine undergoes a 5-day skin maceration, followed by a 13-day wild fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures of 14–16℃. No additives or interventions are used, ensuring a pure expression of the grape. The wine is unfiltered, unclarified, and aged for three months on fine lees to enhance texture and complexity.
Flavor Characteristics:
Amber Assyrtiko presents a pale golden hue with aromas of citrus blossoms and hints of wild herbs. On the palate, it balances refreshing acidity with subtle tannins, creating a harmonious and layered tasting experience.
Food Pairing:
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, grilled vegetables, and traditional Greek mezes.
Uniqueness:
What sets Amber Assyrtiko apart is its organic cultivation, low-intervention vinification, and elegant balance of structure and freshness. It reflects the dedication of Anna Halkia, a pioneer in natural winemaking in the Peloponnese.
Grape Variety:
100% Vostilidi
Annual Production:
Approximately 5,000 bottles
Introduction:
"Hariton" from Haritatos Vineyard is a distinctive white wine crafted exclusively from the indigenous Vostilidi grape of Cephalonia. This wine showcases the unique characteristics of the variety, offering a harmonious balance of freshness and complexity.
Cultivation:
The Vostilidi vines are cultivated in clay-loam soils at an altitude of 280 meters on the island of Cephalonia. The vineyard employs linear cultivation methods without chemical interventions, adhering to organic farming principles that reflect a holistic philosophy. Harvesting is conducted manually in mid-August, ensuring optimal grape maturity.
Vinification:
"Hariton" undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks, followed by aging on the lees for four months. This vinification process enhances the wine's texture and complexity while preserving the fresh fruit character of the Vostilidi grape.
Flavor Characteristics:
This wine exhibits a deep lemon color and is rich in minerality, with aromatic notes of bergamot, white peach, and honeysuckle. On the palate, it presents high acidity balanced by a full-flavored body, achieving a remarkable combination of freshness and creamy texture.
Food Pairing:
"Hariton" pairs excellently with seafood dishes, grilled vegetables, and light poultry dishes. Its crisp acidity and mineral backbone complement a variety of Mediterranean cuisines.
Uniqueness:
"Hariton" stands out for its exclusive use of the Vostilidi grape, a variety native to Cephalonia. The wine reflects the dedication of Haritatos Vineyard to reviving and showcasing indigenous Greek varieties through organic and minimal-intervention winemaking practices.
Grape Variety:
100% Mavrodaphne
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
"Mademoiselle" from Haritatos Vineyard is a vibrant red wine crafted exclusively from the Mavrodaphne grape, indigenous to Cephalonia, Greece. Unlike the traditional sweet, barrel-aged Mavrodaphne wines, "Mademoiselle" is a dry, youthful expression, fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve its fresh fruit character.
Cultivation:
The Mavrodaphne vines are cultivated in sandy loam soils on the island of Cephalonia. The vineyard practices minimum intervention and follows a holistic philosophy, ensuring the grapes express the true terroir of the region.
Vinification:
The wine undergoes fermentation and aging in stainless steel tanks, a method that deviates from the traditional barrel aging of Mavrodaphne. This approach results in a light, dry wine with a purple hue, emphasizing the grape's primary fruit aromas without the influence of oak.
Flavor Characteristics:
"Mademoiselle" is characterized by juicy red fruit aromas such as cherry and raspberry, complemented by notes of vanilla, fresh fig, and laurel. On the palate, it offers a medium to full body with crisp acidity and soft tannins, all in perfect balance.
Food Pairing:
This versatile wine pairs wonderfully with summer barbecues, fried dishes, and can even be boldly paired with sea bass ceviche. Best enjoyed cool, it exemplifies the trend of red summer wines.
Uniqueness:
"Mademoiselle" challenges the conventional perception of Mavrodaphne by presenting it in a fresh, un-oaked, and dry style. This innovative approach highlights the grape's versatility and the winemaker's commitment to exploring new expressions of traditional Greek varieties.
Grape Variety
100% Assyrtiko
Annual Production
N/A
Introduction
Hatzidakis Santorini Familia is a distinguished white wine from Hatzidakis Winery, located on the volcanic island of Santorini in Greece. Crafted entirely from the indigenous Assyrtiko grape variety, this wine exemplifies the unique terroir of Santorini, offering a complex and structured profile. The name "Familia" reflects the winery's transition to the hands of the late Haridimos Hatzidakis's family, continuing his legacy.
Cultivation
The vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 50 to 220 meters on the island of Santorini, characterized by dry, warm summers with minimal rainfall and powerful winds. The volcanic and pumice stone soils are poor in nutrients, contributing to the wine's distinctive minerality. The vines, some over 100 years old, are traditionally trained in the koulouri shape, resembling a basket, to protect the grapes from the strong winds.
Vinification
Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure optimal quality. The wine undergoes fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks. It is then matured for six months on its lees, enhancing its complexity and mouthfeel. The wine is bottled unfiltered, preserving its natural character.
Flavor Characteristics
Hatzidakis Santorini Familia presents a medium lemon color. The nose is expressive, offering aromas of lemon, citron, grapefruit, toast, honey, and peach, with subtle notes of flint and wet stone. On the palate, it is full-bodied with high acidity and a dense structure characteristic of Assyrtiko, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs excellently with shellfish, lean fish, green salads, asparagus, white-sauced meats, and cheeses from the Cyclades.
Uniqueness
Hatzidakis Santorini Familia stands out for its use of the Assyrtiko grape variety, indigenous to Santorini. The traditional cultivation methods, including the koulouri vine training system, and the meticulous winemaking process, contribute to its complexity and aging potential. The wine's distinctive minerality reflects the volcanic terroir of Santorini, offering a unique expression of Greek viticulture.
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% Roditis
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
"Roditis Nature" from Tetramythos Wines is a captivating natural wine made exclusively from the indigenous Roditis grape, known for its ability to produce wines with fresh acidity and vibrant fruit flavors. This wine reflects the winery’s commitment to organic practices and minimal intervention winemaking, bringing out the true essence of the grape and the unique characteristics of its terroir.
Cultivation:
The Roditis grapes for this wine are grown in the high-altitude vineyards of the Kalavryta region, where the cooler climate helps to preserve the natural acidity and freshness of the fruit. Organic farming methods are employed, ensuring that no synthetic chemicals are used in the vineyard. The altitude and specific microclimates in the region provide the perfect environment for growing Roditis, contributing to the wine’s distinct flavor profile.
Vinification:
The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a natural fermentation process using indigenous yeasts, which allows for a more authentic expression of the grape variety. The wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks, maintaining its fresh and lively character. No filtration or fining is applied, ensuring a pure and unaltered wine that is true to its natural roots.
Flavor Characteristics:
Roditis Nature has a pale yellow color with hints of green. On the nose, it offers aromas of fresh citrus, green apple, and white flowers, with a touch of herbaceous notes. On the palate, the wine is crisp and refreshing, with flavors of lemon zest, apple, and a mineral undertone that adds complexity. The lively acidity balances the wine beautifully, and the finish is clean, leaving a refreshing aftertaste.
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs excellently with light seafood dishes, grilled vegetables, salads, and goat cheese. It also complements Mediterranean dishes such as tzatziki, hummus, or roasted chicken with lemon.
Uniqueness:
"Roditis Nature" stands out for its pure, unadulterated expression of the Roditis grape, showcasing the fresh and vibrant qualities of this indigenous variety. The wine's natural production process, minimal intervention, and focus on organic viticulture make it a true representation of Tetramythos Wines' philosophy.
Grape Variety:
100% Agiorgitiko
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
Agiorgitiko Natur from Tetramythos Wines is a natural wine made from the Agiorgitiko grape, one of Greece's most renowned red varieties. This wine is a testament to the winery's commitment to organic and sustainable winemaking, offering a pure expression of the grape’s character in its most authentic form.
Cultivation:
The Agiorgitiko grapes for this wine are grown in the mountainous vineyards of the Nemea region in the Peloponnese, known for its ideal terroir for Agiorgitiko. The vines are cultivated following organic farming practices, ensuring the highest quality of fruit without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or herbicides.
Vinification:
After hand-picking the grapes, fermentation takes place using native yeasts, with minimal intervention throughout the process. The wine is aged in neutral oak barrels to preserve the fresh and fruity character of the Agiorgitiko grape. It is bottled without filtration or fining, embodying the natural winemaking philosophy of the winery.
Flavor Characteristics:
"Agiorgitiko Natur" presents a deep ruby color with intense aromas of dark berries, such as black cherry and plum, complemented by hints of violet and earthy spices. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with soft tannins and balanced acidity, offering flavors of ripe red fruits, herbs, and a touch of pepper. The finish is clean and refreshing, making it a versatile wine with great aging potential.
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, lamb dishes, pasta with tomato-based sauces, and Mediterranean cuisine. Its freshness and fruitiness make it an excellent companion to a wide range of savory dishes.
Uniqueness:
What sets Agiorgitiko Natur apart is its commitment to the natural winemaking process, showcasing the unique qualities of the Agiorgitiko grape without any manipulation. The absence of filtration and the use of organic farming practices allow the true expression of the terroir and grape variety to shine through in the final product.
Grape Variety:
100% Mavro Kalavrytino
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
Mavro Kalavrytino Natur from Tetramythos Winery is a distinctive red wine crafted from the rare Mavro Kalavrytino grape, indigenous to the Kalavryta region in northern Peloponnese, Greece. This wine exemplifies the winery's commitment to organic and natural winemaking practices, offering a unique expression of Greek viticulture.
Cultivation:
The Mavro Kalavrytino (Μαύρο Καλαβρυτινό)is a rare, indigenous red grape variety native to the Kalavryta region in northern Peloponnese, Greece. The grapes are sourced from privately owned vineyards situated at high altitudes, between 650 and 1,050 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Mount Aroania. The region's cool climate, with breezes from the Gulf of Corinth, contributes to the grapes' fresh and balanced character. The vineyards are cultivated organically, ensuring sustainability and environmental harmony.
Vinification:
After hand-picking, the grapes undergo fermentation with native yeasts and minimal intervention. The wine is aged in large oak tanks for 12 months, allowing it to develop its complex flavors. It is bottled unfiltered and unfined, with minimal sulfur use, preserving its natural character.
Flavor Characteristics:
"Mavro Kalavrytino Natur" presents a vivid and brilliant ruby color. The nose is expressive, featuring aromas of cherry, violet, spices, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, it offers a medium-bodied mouthfeel with a botanical character, while its characteristic tannins provide a delightful aftertaste that lingers. Flavors of cherry, strawberry, sour cherry, plum, blueberry, cinnamon, licorice, vanilla, and butterscotch are evident.
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs well with stuffed meats, fillets of fish, baked dishes, and lightly cooked meats, enhancing the dining experience with its vibrant acidity and subtle complexity.
Uniqueness:
Mavro Kalavrytino Natur stands out for its rarity and the rediscovery of the Mavro Kalavrytino grape, once thought extinct. The natural winemaking process, including fermentation with native yeasts and aging in large oak tanks, results in a wine that is both expressive and true to its origins. Its limited production further underscores its exclusivity.
Grape Variety:
100% Roditis
Annual Production:
N/A
Introduction:
Retsina Amphore Nature from Tetramythos Winery is a modern interpretation of Greece's traditional Retsina, crafted with organic Roditis grapes and fermented in clay amphorae. This natural wine offers a fresh perspective on Retsina, emphasizing the grape's character with subtle resin notes.
Cultivation:
The Roditis grapes are sourced from organic, unirrigated vineyards situated at high altitudes in Aigialia, Peloponnese. The region's semi-continental climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters, contributes to the grapes' unique flavor profile. The vineyards are cultivated using biodynamic practices, ensuring sustainability and environmental harmony.
Vinification:
After hand-picking, the grapes undergo wild fermentation in clay amphorae, a traditional method that imparts subtle earthy nuances to the wine. The wine is aged on its lees, enhancing its complexity and mouthfeel. Minimal pine resin is added—approximately one kilogram per ton of grapes—derived from the surrounding pine trees, imparting a delicate resinous character without overpowering the wine's natural flavors.
Flavor Characteristics:
"Retsina Amphore Nature" presents a pale lemon-green color. The nose is expressive, featuring aromas of lemon, citron, peach, and pear, complemented by subtle hints of pine resin, chamomile, and rosemary. On the palate, it is dry with a crisp acidity, offering flavors of citrus fruits, green apple, and a touch of honeyed beeswax, leading to a clean, refreshing finish.
Food Pairing:
This wine pairs excellently with seafood dishes such as grilled octopus, fried calamari, or a fresh seafood salad. It also complements goat cheese and feta, enhancing the dining experience with its vibrant acidity and subtle resinous notes.
Uniqueness:
"Retsina Amphore Nature" stands out for its natural winemaking approach, utilizing organic Roditis grapes and traditional fermentation methods in clay amphorae. The minimal addition of pine resin distinguishes it from conventional Retsina, offering a refined and balanced expression of this historic Greek wine.