Alpha Estate Axia Syrah Xinomavro 2020

The Alpha Estate Axia Syrah Xinomavro 2020 is a red wine that combines two prominent Greek grape varieties—Syrah and Xinomavro—crafted in the wine-producing region of Amyndeon in Northern Greece. Here's a detailed breakdown of this wine:

Key Information:

• Producer: Alpha Estate
• Wine Name: Axia Syrah Xinomavro
• Vintage: 2020
• Grape Varieties:
  • 50% Syrah
  • 50% Xinomavro
• Region: Amyndeon, Northern Greece
• Alcohol by Volume (ABV): Approximately 13-14% (varies slightly by bottling)
• Wine Style: Red, Dry, Medium to Full-bodied

Tasting Notes:

• Appearance: Deep ruby color with purple hues.
• Aroma: The wine is complex with aromas of blackberries, black cherries, and ripe dark fruits. There are also earthy notes, along with hints of leather, spice, and a touch of smoky character from the Syrah. The Xinomavro contributes aromas of dried herbs, tomato, and a subtle, savory quality.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine showcases a rich, well-structured body with balanced tannins and acidity. The Syrah provides a fruity and spicy core, while the Xinomavro contributes a distinctive savory and earthy complexity. Flavors of black fruit, leather, and hints of herbs are complemented by a touch of oak influence.
• Finish: A long and elegant finish with persistent dark fruit and earthy notes.

Winemaking:

• Vineyard: Grapes are sourced from the estate's vineyards in the Amyndeon region, which is known for its cooler climate and well-draining soils—ideal for both Syrah and Xinomavro.
• Fermentation: The wine is typically fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh fruit flavors and then aged in oak barrels (usually French oak) for a period of time to enhance its structure and complexity.
• Aging: The wine often undergoes 12-18 months of aging in oak barrels, with a balance between extracting flavor from the wood while maintaining the fresh characteristics of the grapes.

Food Pairing:

• Red meats: Grilled lamb, beef, or pork.
• Rich dishes: Barbecued meats, stews, and hearty Mediterranean fare.
• Cheeses: Aged cheeses like Manchego or hard cheeses like Gruyère.

About the Producer:

Alpha Estate is a well-regarded winery in Greece, known for producing high-quality wines from indigenous Greek varieties as well as international ones. The estate's vineyards are situated at higher elevations, which provide favorable conditions for growing both Syrah and Xinomavro, offering wines with good balance, structure, and aging potential.

This wine is a great example of how blending indigenous Greek grape varieties with international ones can result in a wine with complex layers and a distinctive character.