Kir-Yianni Diaporos 2019

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. It is recommended to decant it for an hour. Located in Naoussa, Ktima Kir-Yianni is one of the most important Greek wineries. It was founded in the late 90s by Yiannis Boutaris, one of the first winemakers to understand and bet on the potential of the indigenous Xinomavro grape variety. The Kir-Yianni estate, which owns approximately 58 hectares of vineyards between Naoussa and Amyndeon, is led today by Stellios Boutaris. Diaporos is one of the company's most representative wines. A small amount of Syrah is added to the Xinomavro grapes, coming from the Naoussa vineyard, which adds a spicy touch. Fermentation takes place in 225-liter French oak barrels, where the wine remains to mature for 22 months. The wine has an intense color with purple tones. The nose is complex, rich, and broad with fruity aromas of cherry and blueberry, black cherry and plum, followed by spicy hints of pepper, vanilla, and cinnamon. There are also herbaceous and balsamic notes and some nuances of chocolate and tobacco. On the palate, it is round and generous, rich and full with firm and well-integrated tannins and a long, persistent, and spicy finish. It is a wine with great character that pairs well with beef steak but also with game.

Price: £33.11 from 8wines UK