Akrathos Xinomavro, Halkidiki

An opulent, beautifully balanced Xinomavro with balancing freshness, expressive notes of cherry, blackberry and sweet spice through to a long finish.

Producer Note

The vision to create Akrathos began in 2007, when Babis Bekris followed his dream to make wine in the mountainous terroir of Chalkidiki. Nassos Felonis, a prominent lawyer from Athens, who had a shared passion for premium wines from indigenous Greek varietals, supported the new venture and was instrumental in realising the dream. The ideal site was discovered after exhaustive and targeted research in Northern Greece's Chalkidiki, in the municipality of Aristotle. Constructing a winery so close to the birthplace of Artistotle's historic 'Akanthos' wine felt fortuitous; thus the name Akrathos was chosen. The first five hectares were planted in 2009, implementing minimal-impact methods in an effort to preserve the ecological integrity of the area and the terroir. An artisan winery followed in 2014. The unique site, combined with thoughtful and precise winemaking under the watchful eye of the highly sought-after consultant, Kyriakos Kynigopolous, has resulted in rich, concentrated wines that age well. 

Vineyard

The organically cultivated vineyard is located on the eastern slopes of Mount Cholomon, facing Mount Athos and the Syggitikos Gulf. The vines are grown at an elevation of 200 to 500 metres, just a short distance from the Aegean Sea. The vines are strongly influenced by ocean breezes and cool, humid winds from the surrounding mountains at night. This temperate climate allows for natural, bright acidity and contributes to the seasonal hydration of the vines, allowing the precious natural resources to be used more sparingly. In addition to moderate watering, the shallow, sandy loam soil and the slate subsoil ensure low yields and concentrated juice, while the soil's high copper content and limestone provide a foundation for satisfying minerality. The vines are cane pruned, single and double Guyot trained and the grapes reach excellent maturity with balanced acidity and good phenolic density. The grapes are 100% hand-harvested. 

Winemaking

The grapes were fermented with native and cultivated yeasts in stainless steel tanks to retain the freshness and purity of fruit. Gentle maceration ensured the desired extraction of colour, flavour and refined tannins. Maturation lasted for 12 months in seasoned French oak barrels. 

Tasting Note

Expressive and complex aromas of cherry and blackberry are complemented by sweet spice and vegetal tones. Opulent, with balancing freshness, refined tannins and a long finish. 

Grape

Xinomavro 100%