Xinomavro

A noble, indigenous variety, which dominates Northern Greece, mainly found within the boundaries of the imaginary triangle formed by the towns of Naoussa, Amynteo and Goumenissa. It was also known with the names Mavro Naoussis or Niaoustiano, Mavro Goumenissas, Mavro Xino, Popolka, Xinomavro Kozanis but finally the name Xinomavro has prevailed.

The plants are vigorous, productive, in linear vineyards and allow of short pruning. According to legislation, authorized yield should not exceed 10.000 kgr per hectare in order to produce wines that are assigned an Appellation of Origin. It is relatively susceptible to peronosporos and oidium. Moreover, serious damage can be caused by votrytis cinerea, which can affect plants if favourable weather conditions occur. Bunches are easy to pick, which makes an effortless vintage. However, stems can easily break in case of windy weather or in geographical areas struck by high winds.

Its versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of wine types: red, white, rose. The name Xinomavro is a conjunction and derives from the Greek words for "acid" and "black" which refer to the grape's inherent high acidity and dark colour. The above characteristics combined with the method of vinification and ageing, can produce exceptional wines with a sophisticated personality.

It is used by 100% for the production of the following wines, which are assigned an Appellation of Origin: NAOUSSA V.Q.P.R.D. Aged in French oak barrels for one year NAOUSSA RESERVE V.Q.P.R.D. Aged in casks for one year and in bottles for another two years NAOUSSA GRANDE RESERVE V.Q.P.R.D. Aged in casks for two years and in bottles for, at least, two years DAMASKINOS V.Q.P.R.D. Aged in new, French oak casks with high toasting Xinomavro is also used by 50% for the production of IMEROS Red, Regional Wine of Macedonia. Some white wines are also made from Xinomavro, bearing excellent characteristics, such as DOGMATIKOS White Dry and IMEROS White, Regional Wine of Imathia. Finally, due to its versatility, it can be used for the production of rose wines, such as SALAMMBO and VAENI ROSE DEMI-SEC.