IGP Pella “Bucephale” (Red) 2019

A deep and savoury expression of Xinomavro, made only when conditions are perfect. A more serious red, with tannins and structure from long ageing. It has notes of black olive, dried tomato, red and black fruits with very good acidity and a long finish. Production was limited so there is only a small allocation.

The Story: Ktima Ligas was founded in 1985 in Thessaloniki, Greece by Thomas Ligas, with a quest to revive both the traditional varieties and traditional agriculture of the Pella region through respect and cooperation with nature. Today the Domaine is run by his daughter Meli, who continues the focus on permaculture and local grapes, and adapts her cuvées to each vintage, parcel and variety. This wine is named after the famous horse of Alexander the Great, and is made from a single parcel of older vines up in the nearby mountains.

Vinification: 30 year-old vines growing on clay and sand soils at 300 meter elevation. Grapes are hand-harvested, then destemmed, and whole grapes are macerated for 45 days in old oak barrels. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Aged in old oak barrels for 18 months. Unfined and unfiltered. Only 1000 bottles made.

Match it with: Slow roast pork, pasta with tomato and capers, cioppino.