Sclavos Monambeles 2021

The Sclavos family have made wine on Kefalonia, in the Ionian Islands of western Greece, since 1919, and today work their vineyards biodynamically. Monambeles is a dry red from Mavrodafni, an indigenous grape better known in its sweet form but capable of serious, structured table wine when picked and handled with restraint. The island sits in a warm Mediterranean climate tempered by sea breezes, and the limestone-rich soils common to Kefalonia lend the wine grip and a mineral spine. Farming follows biodynamic principles, with the vineyard treated as a single living system and harvest timed to the season rather than the calendar. The wine ages 12 months in oak barrels, where measured oxygen exchange firms the tannins and folds in spice and a leathery, savoury complexity. The colour is deep, dark red. The nose is intense, with ripe blackberry and plum over leather, dried herbs and a touch of black pepper. The palate is concentrated and full, with dense fruit, firm tannin and a long savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting an hour ahead. It is built for roast and grilled red meats.