Oenops, 'Apla' Rose

A crisp and refreshing rosé from three Greek varieties showing elegant notes of tangerine, strawberry, raspberry and a subtle hint of tomato from the Xinomavro.

Producer Note

Oenops was founded in 2015 by talented winemaker Nikos Karatzas, who operating as a négociant, produces a stunning range of distinctive wines from his newly established state-of-the-art winery. He sources indigenous and rare grape varieties grown on exceptional terroir focussing on cool-climate sites and old-vine plots, from carefully selected vineyards in Drama and Macedonia, which have been cultivated by ambitious winegrowers using an organic philosophy. Niko adopts a minimal intervention approach, and vinifies plot by plot using stainless steel, concrete, oak barrels and amphora. His aim is to source great fruit and craft wines that reflect the nuances of the native varieties and the identity from the terroir and as a result, he produces a collection of authentic, elegant and delicious wines. 

Vineyard

The grapes come from a range of specially selected vineyards across Northern Greece, particularly from cool-climate regions, where the Mediterranean climate is tempered by strong continental influences. Diurnal temperature differences allow the grapes to build complex flavours while retaining refreshing natural acidity. The vines are trained using a variety of methods, which have been tailored to suit the variety, vigour of the vine and the terroir, however most are Double Cordon, to keep yields low and concentrate the flavours in the fruit. The majority of the vineyards are cultivated following organic principles, although they are not certified, and all grapes are hand-harvested in the cool of the morning to retain freshness.

Winemaking

Each vineyard plot was vinified separately. The grapes were chilled to 5°C and then were carefully sorted, gently pressed in a pneumatic press with almost 30% remaining as whole clusters. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks with selected yeasts. The wine spent two to four months in stainless steel on its fine lees, to retain the purity of fruit and the distinctive characteristics of the indigenous Greek varieties. 

Tasting Note

A complex and refreshing rosé from three Greek varieties showing elegant notes of tangerine, strawberry, raspberry and a subtle hint of tomato, one of the unique aromas of Xinomavro. Crisp and fruity with a long, refreshing finish. 

Grape

Xinomavro 50%, Limniona 30%, Mavroudi 20%