Alpha Estate Alpha Estate

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The 2005 ALPHA ESTATE with the big -A- on the label is a blend of Syrah (60%), and 20% each of Merlot and Xinomavro. There were 5,000 cases produced. The wine was aged for 11 months in a blend of 80% Allier,13% Missouri Extra Fine Grain, 5% Bertranges and 2% Jupille. It opens lush and tinged by oak, marred a bit by it to be precise, as it seems too simple initially. It comes around nicely with air, showing an elegant mid-palate, lovely flavors and considerable intensity on the finish. With air, the Syrah earthiness asserts itself and gives the wine some character, making it seem more distinctive and interesting. Its structure is very good, and it should hold easily for a decade. Ultimately, it is focused, penetrating and rather tight on the finish, showing lots of promise from such a young winery. The alcohol is high compared to a lot of the Greek wines in this report (14.2%), but unexceptional in the grand scheme of things. The wine seems beautifully balanced. It drank adequately the next day after being refrigerated overnight, still showing some tannin and good fruit. Drink now-2015. This small, interesting and I suspect soon to be important new boutique (first vintage, 2003) located in Amyndeon in Northern Greece has a total production of 7,500 cases. With nods to Italy and France (they make Tannat, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Negroamaro, Pinot Noir, Barbera and others), they also work well with indigenous grapes like Xinomavro. The winery is said to be built with organic materials. Having tasted the older vintages, I would say the turning point here comes with the 2005 (when they settled into their own winery). Earlier years are pleasant, but less distinguished.Importer: Diamond Importers, Chicago, IL; tel: (773) 549-6211