Alpha Estate – Xinomavro, Single Vineyard Hedgehog, Amyndeo – 2021

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 120 hectares of privately owned single block vineyards and employs the most up to date vineyard techniques and winemaking technology to produce world class wines from French and indigenous Greek varietals.

VINEYARD:
Xinomavro (pronounced Ksee-NOH-mav-roe) is a native variety found in northern Greece. Alpha Estate has 69 hectares of privately owned vineyards, which are located on the Amyndeon plateau, in north western Macedonia in the Anyndeon viticulture zone. The grapes for this wine are grown in the sub region known as “Hedgehog”, which is located at 690 metres above sea level and faces Lake Petron and Mount Voras. The soils are composed of sandy clay over limestone and have excellent drainage. Yields are approximately 36 hectolitres per hectare and the vines are carefully managed, with a green harvest and meticulous selection of berries. The harvest takes place manually in 15kg capacity picking baskets.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were destemmed, prior to a light crushing and a cold soak with skin contact. The alcoholic fermentation took place at gradually increasing temperatures. The wine was then maintained on its fine lees or “sur lie”, for a period of approximately eight months with regular stirring. Maturation lasted for 12 months in Allier oak barrels of medium grain, with a light toasting, followed by 12 months bottle ageing.

TASTING NOTE:
A wonderful example of Xinomavro with its complex bouquet of small berried red fruits, leather, pepper, clove and vanilla spice showing great typicity. Structured and beautifully balanced with rounded tannins and well-integrated oak, with a touch of quince on the finish.

GRAPE:
Xinomavro 100%.

COUNTRY:
Greece

REGION:
Macedonia

SUB-REGION:
Amyndeon