Style
Type
Still
Winemaker
Laurens Hartman Karanika & Annette van Kampen
Appellation
Amyndeon
Varieties
Xinomavro
Farming
Organic
Vineyard
Nestled in the far north-western reaches of Greece, Amyndeon, or Amyntaio, named after Alexander the Great’s grandfather, boasts a unique terroir that sets it apart from other wine-producing regions. Situated at an elevation of approximately 700 meters above sea level and shielded by Mount Vermio, Amyndeon enjoys a continental climate with a touch of influence from the nearby lakes, most notably Lake Vegoritis, the largest among them. These geographical characteristics contribute to a winegrowing climate unlike any other in Greece, allowing Xinomavro grapes for red wine production to ripen well into mid-October.
Amyndeon stands out as the coolest wine-producing region in Greece, and its soils exhibit diversity across the vineyards. In the slopes west of Amyndeon, sandy clay predominates around Xinonero, while a sandy loam characterizes the plain area just west of Lake Petron, near Ayios Panteleimonas. Notably, the old ‘ampelotopi’ area in Levea, located just above Domaine Karanika’s winery, features sandy lime soil with a marl underlayer, boasting a notably high calcium content. This unique soil composition, akin to the terroir found in Champagne, imparts remarkable pH values—typically on the lower side—for the grapes.
Domaine Karanika recognizes the significance of these diverse terroirs within the Amyndeon Appellation. As part of ongoing experimentation, the winery cultivates grapes in seven different villages within the appellation: Amyndeo, Agios Panteleimonas, Petres, Xinonero, Levea, Pedino, and Aetos. This meticulous exploration allows Domaine Karanika to harness the distinctive characteristics of each terroir, resulting in wines that truly reflect the essence of this extraordinary region.
Vinification
Grapes fermented traditionally in foudre. Piegage. No pumping. Low sulphur use, no chemical additives. Batonnage for 6 weeks. Released 44 months after harvest.
Features
Cork
Available Sizes (L)
0.750
Distribution Area
Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania
Tech Sheets
Tasting Note
A complex nose of ripe raspberries, tart sour cherries, wild roses, and an intriguing hint of sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Light-bodied on the palate, it features velvety, juicy tannins and a perfectly balanced, natural acidity.
2 Commerce Dr. Suite 3 Moorestown, NJ 08057
Office 800.245.0184
Fax 856.985.5848
