Pieria Eratini : Gymnos Vasilias Naked King 2019

The richness and intensity of a Macedonian red wine

The estate

Close to the Gulf of Thermaïkós, the Pieria Eratini estate thrives upon ideal conditions for great wines: the influence of the Aegean Sea, the altitude of up to 400 metres and the protective barrier formed by the forest surrounding the estate. These elements put in mind a hidden treasure. Now at the head of 150 hectares of organically farmed vineyards, Pavlos Argyropoulos and Andreas Pantos, both highly skilled oenologists, have been dignifying the terroir of Macedonia and Thrace since the estate was founded in 2006. Endemic Greek grape varieties such as Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Kolindrino and Xinomavro are grown alongside more internationally popular varieties such as Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The vineyard

With a surface area of 150 hectares, the vineyards of this estate in Macedonia and Thrace are located at an altitude of 400 metres in the Mount Olympus region, facing the Aegean Sea. Certified organic by DIO, an organisation approved by the Greek Ministry of Agriculture, this exceptional terroir benefits from a mountainous climate that ensures natural temperature regulation.

Winemaking and ageing

Harvested by hand, the grapes are vinified according to the grape variety. The grapes undergo pre-fermentation cold maceration before being fermented at low temperature in small stainless steel vats. This Greek wine is then aged for 18 months in French oak barrels.

Blend

Syrah (85%)
Kolindrino (15%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Gymnos Vasilias Naked King 2019 from Pieria Eratini

Tasting

Colour
This wine is a deep ruby colour.

Nose
The nose reveals scents of chocolate, nutmeg and black fruit.

Palate
On the palate, the wine immediately demonstrates its strong concentration. There are tannins, black fruit flavours and a velvety texture. It offers an interesting balance between sweetness and bitterness, complemented by notes of oak that gradually emerge, hinting at discreet hints of tobacco.