2023 Alpha Estate - Syrah Xinomavro Florina Axia (750ml)

The 2023 Alpha Estate "Axia" is a bold and characterful red blend from the Amyndeon plateau of northwestern Greece, uniting two varieties that bring out the best in each other: the international reach of Syrah and the deeply local identity of Xinomavro. An equal blend of 50% Xinomavro and 50% Syrah, the fruit is drawn from the "Petres" ("Stones") and "Dromos" ("Road") sub-regions of the Amyndeon plateau, where privately owned vineyards are planted on sandy, sandy-clay soils over limestone at 620 to 710 meters above sea level. The grapes are harvested by hand into small picking baskets, with Syrah coming in from the vineyard in mid-September and Xinomavro following in late September. The two varieties are vinified separately before blending, a practice that preserves the distinct character each brings to the final wine.

Winemaking begins with destemming, light crushing, and cold soak skin contact for extraction, followed by alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel with gradual temperature increases and seven months of aging on the lees with regular stirring. The wine then spends 12 months in French Allier oak casks of medium to light toast, followed by 12 months of bottle aging before release. In the glass, the wine offers a splendid purple-red color and a complex bouquet of spices including vanilla, pepper, and clove, with hints of ripe blackberry. The palate is full-bodied with rounded tannins, balanced acidity, and a long finish with an intense quince note. "Axia" translates from Greek as "value," a fitting name for a wine of this ambition and quality. Pair with grilled or braised red meats, roasted lamb, or full-flavored aged cheeses.