2022 Argatia - Red Blend Macedonia Haroula (750ml)

Argatia is a small, family-run winery based in Rodochori, a mountain village about twelve kilometers northwest of Naoussa in northern Greece. It was founded in 2000 by agronomist Haroula Spinthiropoulou, who serves as co-owner and winemaker, and her husband Panagiotis Georgiadis, a longtime advocate for the region's wine culture. This Haroula Red bottling carries her name and reflects the estate's broader mission of championing indigenous Macedonian grape varieties that had largely fallen out of favor.

The blend combines Xinomavro, Negoska, and Mavrodaphne from vineyards farmed organically at around 540 meters elevation on sandy clay soil. In the cellar, the Negoska and Xinomavro ferment together in stainless steel while the Mavrodaphne is vinified separately, with the components blended only after fermentation finishes, a method meant to preserve each variety's individual character before they come together in the final wine.

The result is a fresh, structured red with red fruit character reminiscent of a lighter Nebbiolo, showing cherry, strawberry, and plum alongside notes of violet and dried tomato. The palate carries delicate spice and firm but approachable tannins, giving the wine real food-pairing versatility. It suits Greek stuffed tomatoes, lamb dishes, or hearty tomato-based stews.