Gerovassiliou Avaton 2022

Ktima Gerovassiliou makes Avaton at Epanomi, a coastal site in northern Greece, from a blend of the indigenous Limnio, Mavroudi and Mavrotragano. Limnio is among the oldest recorded Greek grapes, noted by Aristophanes in the fifth century BC. The vines grow on sandy, free draining coastal soils under a warm Mediterranean climate, where strong sun ripens the fruit fully while sea breezes preserve freshness and the wild herb character of the local scrub. Both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation take place in Burgundy oak tanks, the malolactic step converting sharp malic acid to softer lactic acid for a rounder palate, before the wine ages 16 months in French oak that firms the tannins and adds spice. The 2022 shows a deep purple colour and a rich nose of ripe red and black fruit, black pepper, clove and dried Mediterranean herbs over an earthy base. The palate is full and warm, the tannins ripe and the finish long and savoury. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees and decant 30 minutes to an hour ahead. It suits grilled and roast red meat.