Karanika Extra Brut Cuvée Spéciale
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.