Volcanic soils impart a distinct energy, tension, and mineral drive to the wines grown upon them. This four-bottle collection explores the profound influence of volcanic terroir across four distinct regions: an ancient-vine Nerello Mascalese from the black slopes of Mount Etna, a structured and aromatic Xinomavro from the high-altitude vineyards of Naoussa, a vibrant and earthy field blend from the red marls of the Jura, and a savory, dark-fruited Xinomavro from Macedonia.
Domaine Pêcheur, Côtes du Jura Rouge "Cuvée des Trois Cépages", Jura, France
"The Jura Trinity"
An immensely joyful blend of Jura's holy trinity—Poulsard, Pinot Noir, and Trousseau—in equal measure from 35–50-year-old vines rooted in red marl slopes of Darbonnay. Christian and Patricia Pêcheur founded the domaine in 1976, staying organic and true to Jura's oxidative soul. This field-blend rouge ferments on native yeasts and rests in neutral Burgundian barrels, capturing the region's bright tension and earthy pulse without fining or filtering. The 2024 growing season delivered vibrant acidity and pure fruit, making this an early-drinking standout: tactile cherry and raspberry laced with underbrush, spice, and mineral drive.
Pair with: Poultry, charcuterie, or mild mountain cheeses.
Kappa Winery, Kokkymelo Xinomavro, Imanthia, Greece
"The Modern Classic"
Kappa Winery is part of the new wave reshaping Naoussa—Greece's historic homeland of Xinomavro—by focusing on high-altitude vineyards, lower yields, and precision-driven winemaking that highlights purity over power. Their flagship wine, "Kokkymelo," comes from a single high-elevation vineyard in the Fytia sector—one of Naoussa's coolest, most aromatic zones. The 2022 showcases the grape's dual nature: it carries Naoussa's traditional backbone of fine, firm tannins, but tempers it with juicy red and black fruit, spice, and a freshness that marks the best modern expressions.
Pair with: Roasted meats, tomato-based dishes, mushrooms, or aged cheeses.
Kir-Yianni, Xinomavro "Ramnista" Single Vineyard, Naoussa, Greece
"The Benchmark"
Kir-Yianni was founded in 1997 by Yiannis Boutaris, one of the leading figures in the Greek wine industry, and is now run by his son Stellios. The "Ramnista" is sourced from a single vineyard block within the estate, planted on clay-loam soils over limestone. It is a benchmark expression of Xinomavro, offering a complex bouquet of dried tomato, olive paste, dark cherry, and sweet spices. The palate is structured and firm, with high acidity and robust tannins that promise excellent aging potential, while maintaining a core of vibrant fruit.
Pair with: Lamb chops, hearty stews, or aged yellow cheeses.
Calabretta, Nerello Mascalese "Vecchie Vigne", Etna, Sicily, Italy
"The Ancient Vines"
The Calabretta family has been farming vines on the northern slopes of Mount Etna for four generations. Their "Vecchie Vigne" is sourced from ungrafted, pre-phylloxera Nerello Mascalese vines that are 80 to 100 years old, rooted in deep volcanic ash and lava rock. Aged for an extended period in large, neutral Slavonian oak casks, the wine develops profound complexity. It offers a captivating nose of dried cherries, rose petals, volcanic ash, and savory herbs, with a palate that is elegant yet structured, driven by a core of bright acidity and fine, dusty tannins.
Pair with: Roasted pork, wild mushroom risotto, or grilled eggplant.
