Alpha Estate Single Vineyard Hedgehog Xinomavro Rose

A rich, fruity rosé with an aromatic bouquet of rose petals and strawberries and a smooth flavour of red fruits with just a hint of liquorice.

Producer Note

Alpha Estate is located in Amyndeon, North West Greece. It is the brainchild of two visionaries, second generation vine grower Makis Mavridis and Bordeaux trained winemaker Angelos Iatrides. Angelos is one of the most talented winemakers working in Europe. This pristine estate in the cool highlands of Western Macedonia comprises 120 hectares of privately owned single block vineyards and employs the most up to date vineyard techniques and winemaking technology to produce world class wines from French and indigenous Greek varietals.

Vineyard

Xinomavro (pronounced Ksee-NOH-mav-roe) is a native variety found in northern Greece. The vines are grown in privately owned vineyards located on the Amyndeon plateau, in North West Macedonia. The grapes come from the ‘Hedgehog’ sub-region, which is located at an altitude of 690 metres, with a northern orientation facing Lake Petron and Voras Mountain. The influences from the mountain and the lake contribute to the unique microclimates found in the vineyards. The vines are planted at a density of 3,700 vines per hectare and yield 36.5 hectolitres per hectare, post a green harvest and careful selection. The soils are sandy and sandy clay over limestone, which offer excellent drainage. Precise cultivation takes place in the vineyard with a Regulated Deficit Irrigation (RDI) system in place. The grapes are certified as sustainably cultivated and are manually harvested.

Winemaking

The grapes were de-stemmed and lightly crushed. A cold soak took place at 8°C for four hours, followed by fermentation which took place at gradually increasing temperatures. The wine then underwent a post-fermentation maceration with lees stirring which lasted for two months and imparted texture and complexity to the wine. The rosé colour was obtained by the saignée method, resulting in the rich rosé colour.

Tasting Note

A rich, fruity rosé with an aromatic bouquet of rose petals, strawberries, cranberries, citrus zest and hints of rhubarb. Beautifully balanced with a crisp, yet opulent palate enveloped in red fruits and a long, sustained finish.

Serving Suggestion

A versatile wine accompanying Greek gyros with tzatziki, Moroccan couscous with chicken, stuffed tomatoes and peppers; grilled fish or lightly spiced Asian cuisine.

Grape

Xinomavro 100%