2020 Domaine Glinavos - Vlahiko Bekari Ioannina Red Blend (750ml)

The 2020 Domaine Glinavos Vlahiko-Bekari PGI Ioannina is a rare and deeply regional red wine from one of the most distinctive and undersung wine landscapes in all of Greece. Domaine Glinavos was founded in 1978 by oenologist and viticulturist Lefteris Glinavos on the hill of Prophet Elias in Zitsa, Epirus, with the goal of marrying local winemaking traditions with modern technique. Today the estate is run by his son Thomas, across 20 hectares of vineyards in multiple plots set among the high elevations of the Zitsa appellation. The overall character of the region feels more reminiscent of Austria or Switzerland than Mediterranean Greece: limestone soils, cold winters, cooler summers, and wines that rarely exceed 12.5% ABV.

Vlahiko is a grape shaped by low temperatures, limited sunlight, and regular rainfall, as the Zagori area records the highest annual precipitation in all of Greece. Historically confined to supporting roles in Zitsa sparkling blends, it has only recently been vinified as a serious still wine, with a touch of Bekari, another rare indigenous variety, added primarily for color. The grapes are destemmed and vinified in oak vats using a classic maceration lasting 12 days, then aged for two years in French oak barrels. In the glass, the wine pours a deep purple. The nose leads with blackberry, black cherry, and plum, while freshly cut mushroom and spicy elements complete a complex, layered aromatic profile. Robust tannins and fresh acidity point to genuine aging potential, with abundant dark fruit and lively spice on the palate. Pair with duck, game birds, grilled red meats, or braised lamb.