Alpha Estate – Malagouzia, Single Vineyard Turtles, Florina – 2023

PRODUCER NOTE:
Alpha Estate is located in Amyndeo, North West Greece. It is the brainchild of two visionaries, second generation vine grower Makis Mavridis and Bordeaux trained wine maker Angelos Iatrides. Angelos is one of the most talented winemakers working in Europe. This pristine estate in the cool highlands of Western Macedonia comprises 220 hectares of privately owned single block vineyards, which are certified sustainable, and employs the most up to date vineyard techniques and winemaking technology to produce world class wines from French and indigenous Greek varietals.

VINEYARD:
The Malagouzia grapes come from a single vineyard site, known as “Turtles” because it is a nesting site for the local turtle population. The vineyard covers 36.35 hectares in the Amyndeon plateau. The vines are grown at an altitude of 620 to 710 metres above sealevel. Planted at a density of 5,900 vines per hectare, they yield 65 hectolitres per hectare, following green harvest and selection. The soil is sandy to sandy-clay over limestone which offers the vines excellent drainage. When the grapes have reached optimal maturity, they are hand-harvested in 15 kilogram baskets, to preserve the quality of the fruit.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were destemmed, carefully sorted and then lightly crushed, before being cold soaked with skin contact. The must was fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks and was then maintained on its fine lees or “sur lie” for two months with regular stirring, imparting a creamy texture and added complexity to the wine.

TASTING NOTE:
A lively nose of grapefruit, nectarine and hints of almond blossom leads to a richly textured palate, has superb length, balance and plenty of finesse. Bright and zesty on the finish.

GRAPE:
Malagouzia 100%.

COUNTRY:
Greece

REGION:
Macedonia

SUB-REGION:
Florina

AWARDS:
• 91 Points, Robert Parker, 2023
• 16.5 Points, Jancis Robinson , 2023
• 91 Points, Decanter, 2023