Thymiopoulos Earth & Sky

 Xinomavro is an interesting variety, sitting right in trend. It is indigenous to Greece, and expresses itself particularly well in the hilly area of Naousa in Northern Greece. It is often compared to Nebbiolo due to its acidity and tannin structure, but the fruit profile is lighter. I find some similarities with Sicilian varieties. The aromatics have some similarity with Pinot Noir as well.

Thymiopoulos is a major producer of this variety. His portfolio is structured in layers of quality. The Earth & Sky sits at the premium end. Yesterday I tried the 2021 Thymiopoulos Earth & Sky.

The ruby colour of the wine shows medium density. The wine has an appealing rose aroma.

On the palate, red cherry and some herbacious flavours, not green, deliver a bright and lively feel in the mouth. The wine has good concentration and balance. There are smoky notes on the back palate. The acidity shines through, and the finish is medium plus.

This is an interesting and attractive wine, well made and quite serious. This is an ideal drink for the warmer months.

Score: 95/+++  

Thymiopoulos Xinomavro Young Vines

 Wines from Greece have not achieved the same level of general acceptance as, say, wines from France, Germany, Italy, or Spain, despite its long history of winemaking. However, this may be changing. Assyrtiko from Santorini is certainly on the map now. The leading red variety is Xinomavro, and its leading region Naoussa in Macedonia. Until now I was skeptical about this having had some quite harsh wines from there some years ago. However, this has all changed since I have been exposed to the 2020 Thymiopoulos Xinomavro Young Vines. This is a very good wine which offers sensational value.

This wine is quite floral and lifted on the nose. The colour of this medium-bodied wine is bright. Earthy notes add to the red cherry and cranberry flavours. The wine is elegant with an appealing texture. It is light footed, and defies its 13.5% alcohol level. The tannins are well integrated and seamless. It could be taken for a Pinot Noir.

This is a very well made wine. It is the entry level. Apostolos Thymiopoulos is making five or six other reds which I have yet to try. I bought a 12 bottle case of this wine, which I rarely do. I highly recommend this wine. 

Score: 93/+++

  

Diamantis Xinomavro

 Greek wines are gaining more interest. It started with Santorini’s Assyrtiko, and has moved to red varieties from the mainland. Xinomavro is sometimes compared to Nebbiolo because of its aromatics, earthy aspects and high tannins. The 2017 Diamantis Xinomavro is grown at a high altitude of 900 meters on limestone soil in the area of Siatista in Macedonia.

This wine has a bright red colour. It delivers an aromatic bouquet of rose petals. On the palate, red cherry and cranberry fruit is accompanied by some herbs and minerality. This is still a fresh, medium-bodied wine, which is quite elegant. It tastes like a cooler climate wine with firm tannins on the finish. It is best drunk with a protein dish.

Score: 91/+