Parparoussis Oinari 2021

Parparoussis works from Bozaitika, near Patras in the Peloponnese, Greece, on a family estate founded by Athanassios Parparoussis in 1974 and now run by the next generation. Oinari blends Agiorgitiko, the supple, deeply coloured red of Nemea, with a portion of Mavrodafni, the local variety better known for sweet fortified wine, which adds darker fruit and structure. The vines grow under the warm Mediterranean sun, with the nearby sea breeze cooling the nights and helping the grapes keep freshness and aromatic lift. The wine spends six months in French oak barrels, a short ageing that rounds the tannins and adds a light spice and vanilla while keeping the fruit fresh and forward. The colour is a bright, medium red. The nose leads with cherry and red fruit, fresh violet and a subtle vanilla and spice from the oak. The palate is supple and balanced, with velvety tannins, fresh acidity and a savoury, lightly herbal finish. Serve at around 16 to 17 degrees Celsius. It pairs with grilled meats, lamb and tomato-based dishes.