Quantcast
Channel: Greek Wine World
Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 56

Natures call

0
0

As a steward of the land Nikos Douloufakis takes the long view. The conversion to organic viticulture is now in it's second decade. Rootstock, clonal selection, pruning methods are questioned  and adapted to climate change challenges. Fermenting in small tanks his vineyards apart is another dividend paying approach. This new departure was born from a dilemma. Situated on the cooler-site of Ayios Thomas 600m, a 20 year old Vidiano vineyard had one drawback. It did not fully ripen in every vintage. Quality was not an issue it is one of the top expressions of this star grape. What were the options? Rip it up, plant some early maturing grape. It was not an easy decision but one that had to be taken. Inspiration came from earlier in life experience. While studying oenology, he was intrigued by the methode traditionelle of the Champegnois. So, natures call, helped him formulate the way forward: spare the vines and start making sparkling Vidiano. This is a first. Others are bound to follow. Yet, again, Crete reaches deeper into it's impressive potential, by tapping into mountain landscapes and complex tapestry of soil types, in this instance limestone marls, and unique grapes. This effort is the latest game changer from the continent-island. What will they think of next?

Vivid golden yellow. Small beaded lively threads. Creamy pit stone notes. Toasted brioche from 24 months of autolysis. Persistent elegant mineral chalky freshness. Energy and precision. Bone dry. Classy. A whole new aromatic and flavour spectrum for this style of wine. Closest: a bold grower Champagne Chardonnay. More gravitas than Mantinia Moschofilero. A counterpoint to Amyndeo's Xinomavro and blends. Look beyond rich in iodine shellfish or savoury Greek dishes. Thai with its hot spice and lemon grass coriander leaf freshness are a great match – ditto for turmeric perfumed dishes. Drink 2016-2020.


Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 56

Latest Images

Trending Articles





Latest Images