Wines of Greece: Part 2 : Domaine Thymiopoulos

The regions of Macedonia and Náossa are known for their reds, with Náossa being home to the rustic Xinomavro grape.  Náoussa is located on the south-eastern slopes of Mount Vermio with altitudes between 200-350 meters, and gets plenty of rain.   Grand Cru status has been awarded here, and there are two main categories : young wine from the lighter, sandy soils and more age-worthy wines from clay and limestone soil. 

Domaine Thymiopoulos is the producer to look out for here.   The family has been growing grapes for generations, but today the bold and charismatic Apostolos Thymiopoulos has taken the reigns and started producing biodynamic wines of his own that are outstanding.  Working with Xinomavro, his wines remain some of the most refreshing, and concentrated styles of this grape variety leading the drinkability factor to be through the roof.

Grapes are hand harvested around the end of September to early October and set to stainless steel tanks for a natural fermentation followed by spontaneous malolactic conversion in barrels for 18 months, though it can vary.  Wines are un-fined, unfiltered, and hand bottled. 

His Xinomavro rosé is my personal favourite. You can order cases of 6 via private import from Oenopole here in Montreal. (If there is any left.) Otherwise, the following restaurants will have this on their wine list in the next few weeks.  Check it out.

Damas, Monopole, Coureur des Bois, Buvette Chez Simone, Pullman, Lawrence, Hvor, Larry's, Soif, Furco, Alexandraplatz, Liverpool House and Nina Neopolitaine.       

Jeunes Vignes de Xinomavro Náossa 2015  

SAQ: 12212220  $17.10

Medium purple with ruby hues, this aromatic wine has notes of cherries, blackberries and plum.  The medium bodied palate shows concentrated blackberry and dark cherry fruit along with notes of wet earth, and is perfectly balanced with  high acidity and raspy tannins.  The finish is layered and complex. Totally refreshing, totally delicious.  Excellent quality for price.  Drink now or in the next 4-5 years.

                                                                                                                                       

Rosé de Xinomavro

IP: $22.80 Case of 6

Light yet deep ruby red in colour, this wine has aromas of cherries, strawberries and sort of a tomato-ey, dusty earth kind of thing going on.  The palate reflects the nose and has excellent, refreshing acidity and savoury fruit. It’s mineral, fruity, slightly vegetal.  It has lovely nips of tannin, adding to the complexity of this wine. Thirst quenching juice.  Charming. Persistent. Delicious.  It's unlike anything you've ever tasted before.  Drink now or within the next 2-3 years.