Taralas Estate Xinomavro 2012

Taralas Estate is a small, quality-focused winery in Naoussa, northern Greece, working mainly with Xinomavro from hillside vineyards influenced by mountain air and cooler nights. The approach is hands-on in the vineyard and measured in the cellar, aiming to balance structure with drinkability. Xinomavro here shows its classic traits of bright acidity, fine tannins and savoury detail, often with a slightly softer, more approachable edge. Taralas Estate has built a steady reputation for honest, well-made wines that capture the character of Naoussa without overcomplicating things.

Wine roots run deep in Greece, shaped by ancient civilisation, classical trade and centuries of regional winemaking. Despite periods of decline under Ottoman rule, the twentieth century brought revival through modern estates and renewed interest in native grapes. Today Greece is recognised for heritage-driven wines with a contemporary edge.

The wine culture is built on thousands of years of tradition, shaped by dramatic islands, mountain vineyards and a deep respect for native varieties. Its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) system highlights regional identity form the mainland to the islands, across places such as Santorini, the Peloponnesse and Naoussa. Indigenous grapes define the landscape, with Assyrtiko delivering complex whites, Agiorgitiko offering supple reds and Xinomavro known for structure and perfume. You will also find Malagousia, Moschofilero, Liatiko and dozens of other local varieties that speak clearly of their origins.

From windswept Aegean islands to cooler northern plateaus, Greek wine is defined by diversity, freshness and a strong sense of heritage.

Naoussa sits in northern Greece and is one of the country’s key regions for structured, ageworthy reds based on the Xinomavro grape. The vineyards lie on the slopes of Mount Vermio where altitude and a continental climate help maintain acidity and slow ripening. Xinomavro is known for its firm tannins and ability to develop complexity over time, making it well-suited to long term ageing. The region has a strong winemaking tradition with increasing focus on precision and site expression. Naoussa has built a clear reputation for serious, long lived wines with a distinct regional identity.