Tasting Note: A hugely complex and aromatic wine. Starting with a bouquet of ripe black fruit, hints of olives and tomatoes and bursting with terroir expressions of eucalyptus, wood, wet leaves and earth. The acidity has been beautifully preserved and the intense tannins have softened with age.

Producer: Markos is the third generation of a family of viticulturists and winemakers at Markovitis Winery, formerly Chateau Pegasus, and the first producer in Greece to practice organics. Based in Naoussa, a region in the north of Greece, near Thessaloniki, famous for making Nebbiolo-style wines that can be just as age-worthy. Marko's grandfather planted 24 hectares of the Xinomavro grape in 1970 in the foothills of Vermio mountain, in the north-western part of the zone, on gentle slope, between a forest of oaks. Xinomavro can seem austere in youth, with grippy tannins and high acid. This structure mellows with age, the wines acquire a fragrant lift and develop complex earthy notes, not unlike Pinot Noir. Markos’ Xinomavro is the only wine made on the estate, made with 100% de-stemmed fruit and aged in old barrels.

Country: Greece | Region: Naoussa | Alcohol: 12.5% | Grapes: Xinomavro | Organic | Vegan | Vegetarian