This wine comes to us from the people of Hatzidakis Winery, who work with an organic and biodynamic philosophy in their vineyards and with minimal intervention in their cellars. Made with the Assyrtiko varietal from 3 parcels at Pyrgos, Megalohori and Akrotiri on Santorini.

The unique, rare, Mavrotragano variety is found in less than 4% of the Santorini vineyards and accounts for less than 2% of the total yield. The vines are more than 100 years old and grow in volcanic and pumice stone, at an altitude of 50 to 220 metres. They have been turned in the traditional koulouri way, a shape that resembles a pretzel. They receive constant sun, minimal rain and powerful winds.

After hand-picking, the grapes are macerated for 7 days, starting the wild-yeast fermentation. The wine is matured for 18 months in old 500- to 1000-litre oak casks, and subjected to reductive ageing for 12 months on steel tanks. The wine is bottled without filtering.

 Mavrotragano is characterized by an intense red colour with light nuances. The aromas are elegant and subtle, with hints of red forest berries, and a hint of bitter chocolate and tobacco. The wine has great complexity and a nice balance between tannins and acid. It has a long aftertaste and distinctive minerality. The wine goes well with spiced casseroles, meat and fish, as well as matured and fatty cheeses.

 The 2016 vintage was the last created by vigneron Haridimos Hatzidakis. Today, we have the beautiful 2017 in stock, created by the new team at the winery.

Find this wine at Geranium, Fiskebaren, Bar'Vin, Mastro and Terroiristen.

Mavrotragano is a solid alternative to the great reds of Etna, as stated by Decanter.