Have you ever come across this famous sweet, red, Greek wine, Mavrodafne of Patras? This is the wine associated with the great carnival parade of Patra. Unfortunately, although this wine has potential, it lacks in quality.
A couple of years ago, I came across a different kind of Mavrodafne that changed my entire perception. I am talking about a delicious fortified wine made from high quality fruit, mainly from “Mavrodafne” grapes.
Its name, Mavrodafne Reserve, by Cavino Winery
What makes this wine great?
It is a blend of different vintages, which matures for over 7 years in high quality oak barrels, and then it benefits with additional bottle aging for at least 4 more years.
Interesting fact: 30% of this wine evaporates during this process while making it even more concentrated and complex in both aroma and taste. This evaporation is also known as “angel’s share”because when something is that good, everyone wants their fair share!
A perfect description: Brilliant pale red with orange highlights. On the nose, pure elegance. Taste wise it has aromatic notes of dried fruit (like plum, fig, raisin), chocolate, hazelnut. It is rich, complex and rather sweet. Completely balanced, with a surprising refreshing taste and and evolving character. And to top it all up, it leaves a long-lasting, elegant after-taste and dry finish.
You’ve got to love…
That it can be drunk alone, with chocolate desserts and with salty dishes for a sweet-salty combination made in heaven!
So, what do you think? Are you tempted enough to try this big wine?
See you next week!
Cheers, Santé and Yiamas…
Until then.. Strike for a glass half full !
Nicole x
