Dalamára Naoussa “Paliokalias”

In 1971, Naoussa was accorded PDO status (Protected Designation of Origin), the country’s first appellation. This red is made from 100% Xinomavro grown in a traditional vineyard area called Paliokalias (meaning “Old Watch Point”), 2.5 miles south-east of the town of Naoussa, at an altitude of 250-300 m. It is characterized by deep groundwater and the lower part of the youngest section of the vineyard is crossed by a small river with a stable water flow. The climate of this area features warm, dry summers and mild winters. For most of the day, the vines fully benefit from the sun.

Paliokalias is a more traditional style of Xinomavro. The only intervention that is done is the addition of a very small amount of sulfur dioxide. No yeasts, no enzymes, no filtration, no clarification etc. Aged in oak barrels for 12 months. Kostis Dalamara has been making the wine entirely since the 2011 vintage. High acidity, as always in Xinomavro, but it gets more and more balanced as it ages. The tannins are significantly smoother than one could expect from that variety, thanks to the work Kostis did on the selection of the grapes and on their phenolic maturity level. Aromas of blackcurrant, dried plum, with good acidity, elegance and a persistent finish. Since 2005, Paliokalias is not filtered, so a small amount of sediment at the bottom of the bottle is normal. It is recommended to decant the wine for a few hours before serving it. 800 cases made.