Many of you are familiar with the term “Super Tuscan”: Italian wines that include Bordeaux-origin grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Well, the Italians don’t have that particular market cornered. Spain, Portugal and Greece have been doing the same for a while now. Today’s wine is from Macedonia, located in northern Greece. It is based on Merlot, with equal parts of the native Xinomavro grape, and Syrah. I had my doubts going in on this, but the wine is a delight. What it lacks in complexity it makes up for with beautiful balance and joyful drinking.
2016 Paranga Red, Kir Yianni Estate $18 srp
Deep ruby in color. The bouquet suggests blackberry, tobacco, tea, smoke and a touch of menthol. The lack of oak aging brings its fruit focus to the fore. Flavors are mild and smooth with plum, licorice and spicy clove elements. Medium bodied with a lithe texture overall, I found myself going back to sip it over and over again. (50% Merlot, 25% Xinomavro, 25% Syrah) Drink now-2019.
89/100 points
