Alpha Estate Axia Xinomavro Syrah is a modern interpretation of Northern Greece, combining power and refinement. Crafted by Angelos Iatridis and viticulturist Makis Mavridis on the high-altitude Amyndeon Plateau, Axia translates to “value” and refers to the estate’s commitment to combining terroir, precision, and aging potential in a single, balanced blend of two characterful grapes. What makes this wine special? The combination of high-altitude vineyards at 620–710 meters with a 50/50 blend of Xinomavro and Syrah produces a wine with both structure and aromatic depth.
The grapes come from Greece and Macedonia, on the Amyndeon Plateau within the Petres and Dromos subregions. The vineyards are linearly planted and entirely privately owned by Alpha Estate. They lie on sandy to sandy clay soils with limestone, which ensures excellent drainage and natural freshness in the grapes. The climate is semi-continental with cold winters, regular snowfall, and fresh, relatively dry summers with cool nights. Constant northwesterly winds and the absence of spring frosts contribute to healthy ripening. The planting density is 5,900 vines per hectare, and the yield is deliberately limited to approximately 51–60 hl/ha after green harvest and strict selection.
Harvesting is done manually into small 15 kg crates to ensure the quality of the grapes. After destemming and light crushing, a cold maceration with skin contact follows to develop color and aromatic intensity. Alcoholic fermentation proceeds with a gradual increase in temperature. The wine then remains "sur lie" for seven months, meaning it matures on the fine yeast cells with regular bâtonnage, which adds structure and mouthfeel. Maturation lasts twelve months in Allier oak barrels with medium to light toast, followed by another twelve months in bottle. The alcohol content is around 14%, with a fresh acidity of approximately 6 g/l and a pH of 3.52, giving the wine balance and ageing potential.
Xinomavro – Amyndeon
Xinomavro makes up 50% of the blend and is known for its structure, fresh acidity, and spicy complexity. In Amyndeon, the grape retains its elegance thanks to the cool nights at altitude.
Syrah – Amyndeon
Syrah accounts for the other 50%, bringing ripe dark fruit, roundness and spiciness to the wine, giving the blend more depth and softness.
