Xynomavro is the premier red grape of Naoussa, in the Macedonia region of northern Greece. It is made in a variety of styles, but the Kir-Yianni estate consistently creates a beautiful balance of fruit, oak, herb and spice nuances in their Ramnista Xyonmavro. The 2015 Ramnista is a lovely and complex red. It has a forward bouquet of strawberry, cherry, plum, and raspberry fruits underscored by hints of violets, vanilla, mushroom, olive, sandalwood and spices. Rich and complex on the palate, it show layers of red and black fruits enhanced by floral, black olive, leather, vanilla, herb and spice tones. It is easy to see why many compare fine Xynomavro bottlings to the Nebbiolos of Barolo and Barbaresco. The Ramnista is a sleek rendition of Xynomavro that invites you to compare it with your favorite reds.
Kir-Yianni, Naoussa (Macedonia, Greece) Xynomavro 2015
By Wayne Belding