Kir-Yianni
Stellios Boutaris is the fifth generation winemaker, today heading up Kir-Yianni, founded in 1997 by his father, Yiannis, following his departure from the Boutari family business. Boutari, the largest and oldest wine company in Greece, had been established by Yiannis’ grandfather in 1879.
Kir-Yianni makes wine across two regions in the north of Greece – Amyndeon and Naoussa, with the aim of producing terroir driven wines that speak of place. In Naoussa, the 58 Ha vineyard is located on the east slopes of Mount Vermion, situated at an altitude of 250 to 350 m.a.s.l. on sandy, clay soils. Located at just 100 km from the Agean Sea, it enjoys a cool, Mediterranean climate. In contrast, Amyndeon is the coldest wine growing region in Greece. At an altitude of 750 m.a.s.l. the climate is continental, tempered only by the presence of four lakes which create a very special microclimate. The soils are poor and sandy, and unaffected by phylloxera. Specialising in the native Greek grape variety – xinomavro, the wines of both Naoussa and Amyndeon have a layered complexity of fruit and serious acidity, which give them a unique character and long ageing potential.
Tasting Notes
Grapes/Blend: 80% Roditis, 20% Malagousia
pH: 3.40
Acid (g/L): 4.7
Sugar (g/L): 2.6
Vinification
After a period of cold soak, which increases the extraction of more intense aromas from the skin of the grapes, the must is clarified through static debourbage, before it is inoculated with selected yeasts demonstrating the aromatic character of the grapes.
Maturation
Batonnage is applied in inox tanks for a period of 3-5 months, with the aim to add volume and complexity to the wine.
Aroma
Intense but refined muscat aromas of jasmine, white peach and apricot, typical of a high-quality Malagousia.
Palate
Pleasantly balanced by the freshness of a mountainous Roditis adding a crispy acidity and zest to the final blend. The lingering fruity aftertaste underpins the intense flavor and highlights a wine with an enchanting character.
Vintage Notes
Amyndeon had a heavy winter with very low temperatures. April had very low temperatures as well and in May we had some hail, which damaged some plants - production therefore was lower than usual. Summer however was very dry and warm and the abundance of rain helped us get earlier ripening and very healthy crop. 2017 will be a very aromatic year for the Amyndeon whites. Xinomavro too, is expected to give excellent results.
Cellaring Potential
2-3 years.
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