XINOMAVRO

If you love the ethereal power of Pinot Noir or the structured complexity of Nebbiolo, you will fall in love with Xinomavro. Its name translates literally to "Acid-Black," a nod to its vibrant acidity and deep, brooding character, yet in the glass, it often appears deceptively pale and translucent.

Hailing primarily from the cool, high-altitude vineyards of Naoussa and Amyndeon in northern Greece, Xinomavro is widely regarded as the country's finest red grape. It is a wine of striking paradoxes: elegant yet muscular, aromatic yet savoury. It does not rely on simple fruit sweetness; instead, it offers a distinct, intellectual bouquet of sun-dried tomato, black olive tapenade, sour cherry, and truffle.

Like fine Barolo, these are wines built for the long haul. In their youth, they can be gripping and tannic, demanding rich protein (roast lamb is the ultimate match), but with age, they evolve into something truly profound, layering leather, spice, and earth over that vibrant core of red fruit.