Xinomavro

Xinomavro – The soul of the Greek north

Xinomavro is the most important indigenous red wine variety in northern Greece and is grown particularly in the regions of Naoussa, Amyndeo and Rapsani. The name means “sour black” and refers to the strong acidity and dark color of the grape. The variety is often referred to as the Greek equivalent of Nebbiolo – and rightly so: Xinomavro wines are complex, rich in tannins and extremely storable.

The wines display a multi-layered spectrum of aromas with tomato paste, olives, dark berries, dried herbs and earthy notes. Xinomavro is extremely versatile, depending on how it is matured – whether classically in wood, as a mature reserve or as a fruity rosé.

🔹 Naoussa DOC: Classic, structured, tannic with aromas of dried fruit, herbs and ripe tomatoes.
🔹 Amyndeo: Light, fresh style with fine acidity – also ideal for rosé wines.
🔹 Rapsani: In the cuvée with Krassato and Stavroto, somewhat softer, spicier, more harmonious.

➡ Which dishes harmonize perfectly with xinomavro? Find the best combinations here!

🥂 Xinomavro & dishes – The best food pairings

1️⃣ Classic Xinomavro (e.g. Naoussa, Rapsani)

Taste: Complex, spicy, high tannins and acidity, earthy.
Typical aromas: Dried tomato, black olive, sour cherry, leather, rosemary.

✅ Best food pairings:
✔ Greek braised dishes & grilled meat → Lamb kleftiko, moussaka, souvlaki
✔ Mediterranean dishes with tomatoes & eggplants → Imam bayildi, gigantes plaki
✔ Matured sheep’s cheese & spicy antipasti → Feta from the oven, olives, pickled peppers

➡ Recommended recipes:
– Lamb kleftiko with herb potatoes
– Moussaka with eggplants and béchamel

2️⃣ Fruity Xinomavro rosé (e.g. from Amyndeo)

Taste: Fresh, fruity, animating with invigorating acidity.
Typical aromas: strawberry, red currant, rosehip, pink pepper.

✅ Best food pairings:
✔ Summer dishes & light cuisine → Taboulé, watermelon with feta, grilled prawns
✔ Mezze & finger food → Dolmades, zucchini pancakes, yoghurt dips
✔ Cream cheese & savoury snacks → Labneh, feta cream, toasted flatbread

➡ Recommended recipes:
– Mezze platter with dolmades & tzatziki
– Grilled prawns with lemon oil and herb salad

3️⃣ Matured Reserve Xinomavro (e.g. Grand Reserve Naoussa)

Taste: Deep, with silky tannins, ripe aromas and a long finish.
Typical aromas: leather, fig, undergrowth, black tea, smoke, allspice.

✅ Best food pairings:
✔ Game dishes & fine dining → Saddle of venison, lamb crown, pigeon breast
✔ Braised lentils & oriental spiced dishes → Lentil stew with cumin, cinnamon lamb with figs
✔ Matured cheese & rustic bread dishes → Pecorino, halloumi, pita with eggplant paste

➡ Recommended recipes:
– Saddle of venison with herb crust & pomegranate jus
– Oriental lentil stew with yogurt and mint topping

🔍 Xinomavro & food pairing at a glance

📌 Tip: Xinomavro should ideally be served at 16-18 °C – the rosé a little cooler at 10-12 °C.

🚀 Conclusion: Why Xinomavro goes so well with Greek dishes

Xinomavro is a real character wine with depth and structure. Whether as a classic red wine from Naoussa, a light rosé from Amyndeo or a mature Grand Reserve – this Greek grape variety goes perfectly with Mediterranean cuisine, aromatic spices and traditional dishes. A must for wine lovers in search of authentic enjoyment!

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15
Apr