The Malagouzia grape was nearly extinct in the 1970’s when Professor of Oenology Vassilis Logothetis found it growing in west central Greece. One of his students, Vangelis Gerovassiliou, began to experiment with it to great success, and today Malagouzia is planted throughout Greece. Florina is a growing region in Macedonia of Northern Greece. Alpha Estate is a top producer on this high plateau. Malagouzia is an aromatic white grape that results in wines reminiscent of Viognier, Albariño or dry Muscat. The 2021 Alpha Estate Malagouzia is drawn entirely from the Turtles Vineyard – a site that yields grapes of great intensity. It is an enchanting sensory experience with an expressive bouquet of peach, ripe apple and tropical fruits enhanced by linden flower, herb and citrus peel hints. The flavors are exotic and appealing with the luscious peach and mango fruits backed by delicate floral, herb and citrus peel tones. It has a rich texture and a long finish and will provide fine drinking for another year or two.
Alpha Estate, Florina (Macedonia, Greece) Malagouzia 2021
By Wayne Belding