Alpha Estate is one of the most innovative and technologically advanced wineries in Greece, located in the cool, high-altitude plateau of Amyndeon within the northwestern region of Macedonia. Founded in 1997 by viticulturist Makis Mavridis and winemaker Angelos Iatridis, the estate has played a central role in elevating the status of the indigenous Xinomavro grape. The "Hedgehog" single-vineyard bottling is named after the native hedgehogs that inhabit the area, sitting at an elevation of over 2,200 feet. Here, the combination of sandy, well-drained soils and a unique microclimate regulated by nearby lakes provides the perfect environment for making structured, highly aromatic red wines.

The 2021 "Hedgehog" Xinomavro is a masterfully crafted red that tames the grape's naturally aggressive structural elements while preserving its distinctive wild personality. After a careful sorting process, the fruit underwent a cold soak followed by a controlled fermentation to preserve its vibrant aromatics. The wine was then aged for twelve months on its fine lees in neutral French oak barrels, followed by an additional period of bottle maturation before release. The 2021 vintage delivers a beautifully focused and energetic expression, showcasing an elegant balance between Xinomavro's signature savory complexity and a core of bright, refreshing red fruit.

Why You’ll Love it

• This is a brilliant introduction to Xinomavro, a grape often compared to Nebbiolo for its matching combination of high acidity, firm tannins, and savory aromatics.

• The 2021 vintage is wonderfully expressive, offering an alluring bouquet of wild strawberries, sour cherries, sun-dried tomatoes, black olive tapenade, and a touch of sweet spice.

• On the palate, it balances a medium-bodied frame with an intensely energetic thread of acidity that cleanses the palate and keeps the wine incredibly refreshing.

• The tannins are firm yet finely textured, providing a solid backbone that carries the savory and earthy notes through a long, dry finish.

• It represents exceptional value for a single-vineyard estate wine, offering a complex, old-world profile that is ready to drink now but will cellar beautifully.

How To Serve It

• Serve this wine slightly cool between 60°F and 62°F to emphasize its bright red fruit and maintain its elegant, high-toned structural balance.

• We recommend a 45-minute to one-hour decant to let the tightly wound tannins relax and allow the complex, savory aromas to fully open up.

• Use a standard Bordeaux glass or a wide-bowled Burgundy glass to best focus the complex bouquet and soften the impact of the firm tannins.

• This is an incredibly food-friendly red that pairs perfectly with rustic dishes like roasted lamb shoulder, wild mushroom risotto, or a rich beef stew with herbs.