Xinomavro Hedgehog Alpha Domaine

Xinomavro Hedgehog by Alpha Estate is a dry red Amyndeon PDO wine that shows the more refined, fresh and precise side of Xinomavro. It comes from the Hedgehog sub-region, on the Amyndeon plateau, at an altitude of 690 metres, with northern exposure and views towards Lake Petron and Mount Voras. The cool climate of Florina gives the variety acidity, clarity and intensity, without making the wine feel heavy.
In the winery, Alpha Estate works with pre-fermentation cold maceration, alcoholic fermentation at controlled temperature and 8 months on the lees with periodic stirring. The wine then ages for 12 months in new French oak barrels and stays for at least 14 months in bottle before release. This gives Xinomavro a more polished texture, firm structure and depth, without losing the variety’s characteristic energy.
In the glass, it moves through red and dark fruit, ripe blackberry, sun-dried tomato, dried fig, pepper, clove and subtle vanilla from the oak. On the palate, it is full but not heavy, with lively acidity, well-worked tannins and a finish that leaves fruit, spice and a lovely earthy feel. This is Xinomavro with character, but more immediate and approachable than the very strict expressions of the variety.
Put it next to beef, lamb, game, tomato-based stews, mushrooms, dishes with tomato, charcuterie and mature cheeses. It needs a little time in the glass and gives back more complexity as it opens.