About the Greek Red Wine Xinomavro

Written by Greek Boston in Greek Wine List: White Wines, Red Wines Comments Off on About the Greek Red Wine Xinomavro

Xinomavro is a red wine grape that is cultivated mainly in Rapsani, Trikomo, Siatista, Velventos, Goumenissa, and Naousa. It is a grape variety that is widely planted around northern Greece. It is also cultivated, to a lesser degree on Mount Athos. The Xinomavro red wine that is produced in Naousa from these grapes is considered one of the most regarded and well-known of all Greece’s wines. The PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) requires the use of 100% Xinomavro grapes. In Goumenissa the Xinomavro grape is blended with Negoska, which produces a fruity wine that has high alcohol levels.

Xinomavro is also known by the names: Xyno Mavro, Xynomavro, Pipolka, Popolka, Black Naousa, Mavro Naoustino, and Niaoussa. The name Xinomavro comes from the words xino meaning “sour” and mavro meaning “black.” Ironically, the skin of the xinomavro berries does not contain much of a tint itself. The grapes themselves are a blue-black color and grow in tight batches. They are late ripening vines that require care and attention when being cultivated. They need just the right weather to result in the best grapes.

Xinomavro wine has the aroma of flowers, tomatoes, red fruits, dried prunes, nuts, and tobacco. The wine is matured in oak, but just as with cultivation, care must be taken when the wine is being matured as too much can overwhelm the fussy wine. Xinomavro is a complex and challenging wine, but makes a wonderful compliment to meals. Xinomavro wine pairs well with meat dishes.

Type of Greek Wine

Xinomavro is a dark grape that produces a red wine.

Wine Region for Xinomavro in Greece

The Xinomavro grape is planted and grown widely around northern Greece and it can also be found at Mount Athos.

Xinomavro Greek Wine Flavor Description

Xinomavro wine is dry with medium to full body with high tannins and acidity. The aroma and flavor are that of tobacco, plum sauce, raspberry, nuts, and flowers. Xinomavro is a very complex wine.

Food Pairing for Xinomavro Greek Wine

In addition to meat dishes, Xinomavro goes well with cheesy pastas, and rice dishes such as mushroom risotto.

• Roast chicken
• Meatloaf
• Veal stew with onions
• Greek style grilled pork chops
• Cabbage and pork
• Lamb casserole with pasta

Facts About Xinomavro Greek Wine

• Xinomavro is considered one of Naoussa, Greece’s most important wines. Enthusiasts often compare it to the Nebbiolo grape.
• Xinomavro is also compared to Pinot Noir.
• While sensitive to weather, the Xinomavro grape is quite resistant against disease.

Xinomavro is one of Greece’s most important wines that shouldn’t be overlooked. If you’re ever in Greece or out to dinner at a Greek restaurant, don’t hesitate to try Xinomavro.

Categorized in: Greek Wine List: White Wines, Red Wines

This post was written by Greek Boston