Alpha Estate : Blend S.M.X. (Syrah, Xinomavro, Merlot) 2018

Deep and complex, an ageworthy fine Greek wine

The estate

Alpha Estate was founded in 1995 by two wine enthusiasts: Angelos Iatridis, currently the Cellar Master, and Makis Mavridis who now looks after the vineyard. In 2011 the estate began exporting a large amount of its wines and in 2014, Alpha Estate was listed in Wine & Spirit Magazine's Best World 100 Wineries - a title that it also enjoyed in 2019 and 2021. The estate was also voted as European Winery of the Year in 2020 by the prestigious magazine, Wine Enthusiast.

The vineyard

Alpha Estate's vineyards cover 220 hectares and are divided into six separate vineyards. All are located close to the winery, in the heart of the Amyndeon appellation in Greece. The viticultural practices used at the estate pay the utmost attention to the needs of the soil, plants and vines in order to preserve the ecosystems. Thanks to the sustainable methods used at Alpha Estate, the estate was awarded the "Certified Sustainable Viticulture" label in 2008.

Blend S.M.X. 2018 stems from vines located at an altitude ranging between 620 to 710 meters. The soil is sandy-clay and well-drained. The climate is semi-continental enjoys a good amount of rain, snowfall and dry summers.

Vinification and ageing

Following the manual harvesting, the grapes are taken to the cellar where they begin a very precise vinification process. The grapes are destemmed and lightly pressed. The vinification is done in contact with the skins and the fermentation is based on indigenous yeasts. The wine remains in contact with its lees for 8 months with regular stirring. Lastly, the wine is aged for 24 months in oak barrels. The wine is not filtered before bottling and is aged for a further 12 months in bottle before being put on the market.

The blend

Syrah (60%), Xinomavro (20%) and Merlot (20%).

Blend S.M.X. 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

Blend S.M.X. 2018 has a deep ruby colour with hints of purple.

Nose

The aromatic bouquet is powerful and very intense. It reveals the harmonious aromas of sweet cherry, candied plum and vanilla. 

Palate

Blend S.M.X. 2018 is a full-bodied and deep wine, marked by flavours of black fruits, pepper and spices. The tannins are firm, the acidity is bright and the finish is long. This Greek wine offers a promising and great ageing potential.