Discovering the Authentic Wine Roots of Xanthi: A Hidden Gem in Eastern Greece

Introduction: Xanthi, a hidden gem nestled in the easternmost part of Greece, is an up-and-coming wine region that has captured the hearts and palates of wine enthusiasts. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse topography, and unique grape varieties, Xanthi is quickly making a name for itself on the global wine stage. In this Artisanal Wine Roots review, we will delve into the captivating world of Xanthi wines, exploring their distinct characteristics, food pairings, and the region's deep-rooted history.

Region Overview: Located in the beautiful Thracian plain, Xanthi is surrounded by the Evros River to the north and the sea to the east. The region boasts a diverse landscape, ranging from vast plains to rugged mountains, providing an ideal terroir for its unique grape varieties. Xanthi's winemaking tradition dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting that wine production has been taking place in the area since at least 2000 BCE.

Wine Style: Xanthi is renowned for its authentic, artisanal wines, which showcase the true essence of their unique terroir. The region's wine style is characterized by bold flavors, well-structured tannins, and a harmonious balance between acidity and sweetness. Xanthi's red wines are predominantly made from the local Roditis and Mavrotragano grape varieties, while its white wines are primarily produced from the Moschofilero and Assyrtiko grapes.

Key Grape Varieties: 1. Roditis: A versatile grape variety that thrives in Xanthi's terroir, producing wines with red and rosé hues. The red wine made from Roditis is medium-bodied, characterized by its bright fruit flavors, gentle tannins, and aromatic bouquet. 2. Mavrotragano: A rare and ancient grape variety that is indigenous to Xanthi. Its wines are full-bodied, rich in tannins, and possess distinctive notes of dark fruit, spice, and leather. 3. Moschofilero: This white grape variety is well-adapted to the region's cooler climate and produces wines with high acidity and aromatic qualities. These wines exhibit flavors of citrus, white flowers, and minerality. 4. Assyrtiko: Another renowned Greek white grape variety, Assyrtiko is grown in Xanthi's volcanic soils. Its wines are characterized by their mineral characteristics, bright acidity, and intense flavors of lemon zest, green apple, and white pepper.

Food Pairings: Xanthi wines offer a rich and diverse range of flavors that pair beautifully with various dishes. Some delicious food pairings include: 1. Red Roditis with grilled meats, such as souvlaki or moussaka. 2. White Moschofilero with seafood dishes, like feta-stuffed sardines or octopus salad. 3. Full-bodied Mavrotragano with richly flavored dishes, such as stewed rabbit or lamb kebabs.

Conclusion: Xanthi is a must-explore wine region for any discerning wine enthusiast seeking authentic, artisanal wines that showcase the true essence of their terroir. With its rich history, diverse grape varieties, and unique food pairings, Xanthi's wines offer an unforgettable tasting experience. So, join us in our journey to discover the captivating world of Xanthi wines – where tradition meets innovation, and authenticity knows no bounds!