North Greece's Kir-Yianni: A Naoussa wine story

Naoussa's Kir-Yianni was on my list when I returned to North Greece in June. Kir-Yianni estate was founded in 1977 by Yiannis Boutaris. Since 1999 the winery has been under the direction of Yiannis's son, Stellios Boutaris. Stellios took over as winemaker and CEO. The winery now produces over one million bottles a year from two adjacent, but very different, PDO regions (Naoussa and Amnydeon). Kir-Yianni acquired Santorini's Sigalas in 2020. Paris Sigalas remains as winemaker and on the board, with Boutaris as CEO. Clearly, Kir-Yianni's influence under the direction of Stellios will be exciting to watch.

Kir-Yianni, Naoussa, June 2022 © Spaswinefood

Kir-Yianni Winery is beautifully situated, surrounded by vineyards. As we drove down the road towards the winery I was excited to return after my first visit here in 2015.

Kir-Yianni, June 2022 © Spaswinefood

The evening before arriving in Naoussa we attended a wine tasting in Thessaloniki. 

Thessaloniki, June 2022 © Spaswinefood

Amongst the wines there were many options to explore from the Winemakers of North Greece. Since I am a big fan of Xinomavro I focused on these wines.

Blind Wine Tasting, Thessaloniki © Spaswinefood

One of my discoveries at this tasting was the rich diversity of Xinomavro wines (red, rosé, and sparkling). I believe this was the perfect welcome back to North Greece. While I was busy checking out Xinomavro my friend Carol discovered Malagousa but that is another wine story. North Greece has many wine stories. 

Kir-Yianni: A Naoussa Story

Kir-Yianni in Naoussa was a delight to revisit. After all, the Naoussa Appellation was the first Greek wine region to be made an official appellation in 1971. Wines produced in Naoussa are required by appellation law to be made from 100% Xinomavro. Yes, that noble indigenous red grape variety. Moreover, some producers make wines from the international grape varieties, such Merlot and Syrah. These wines because of appellation law, are marketed under the Macedonia PGI label. One of my take aways from my recent visit to North Greece was the amazing range and diversity of Xinomavro wines (both PDO and PGI) available. Clearly, there are many exciting wine developments in Naoussa these days. Ktima Kir-Yianni is indeed part of this adventure. The influence of this Naoussa winery continues to inspire wine making in Naoussa and beyond.

Naoussa Wine Country © Spaswinefood

Once I planned our Naoussa wine country adventure of course I just had to stop by Ktima Kir-Yianni.  Kir-Yianni's story began when Yiannis Boutaris acquired 50 hectares in 1968. The first Xinomavro vines were planted in the 1970's. This initiated the production of terroir wines. Research has since suggested that Naoussa has the potential of being divided into 13 different sub-zones, representing the rich terroir diversity of the region.

Arriving at Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

Onto Kitma Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

It was a beautiful June day when we arrived at  Kir-Yianni. As we drove towards the winery we passed through the vineyard.

Entrance to Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

Soon we arrived at the winery.

Welcome to Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

Kir-Yianni Winery © Spaswinefood

It was good to return and discover that Kir-Yianni recently added a restaurant.

Welcome to Kir-Yianni

Xinomavro Lineup, Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

Tasting Kir-Yianni Xinomavro © Spaswinefood

I focused on tasting their Xinomavro wines. This inviting line-up of wines showcased the wide range of Xinomavro wines being produced by Kir-Yianni. While at Kir-Yianni we also enjoyed a very delicious lunch in their restaurant. Amongst the dishes we enjoyed their locally made bread and delicious salad.

Local Bread, Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

Fresh & Delicious Salad, Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

One of the main dishes were selected was a pasta.

Pasta, Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

If we had happen to visit Kir-Yianni, on not such a hot day, then I would enjoyed their beautiful patio setting.

Patio at Kir-Yianni © Spaswinefood

Kir-Yianni Vineyard Views © Spaswinefood

During my June visit I could not but remember an earlier visit.

Remembering October 2015

It was indeed night when we arrived at Boutari Winery in Stenimahos Naoussa. Reflecting back on that evening I now realize this was my first introduction to the Naoussa wine region. I cannot think of a better introduction to Naoussa wines than an evening with local producers. That evening we tasted wines from Boutari Naoussa, a well-established, large producer and two younger, small producers Elinos and Kitrvs. Next morning, our first stop was Ktima Kir-Yianni. What a fabulous first-hand introduction to Naoussa's Wine Road it was. I had come to see why Xinomavro is on Fire.

Kir-Yianni Vineyard, Naoussa 2015 © Spaswinefood

Kir-Yianni Winery: First Visit

After a restful night in Naoussa next day we travelled onto Kir-Yianni Winery in Giannakohori. 

Kir-Yianni Estate Vineyard © Spaswinefood

Visitors soon discover that Kir-Yianni Winery is beautifully situated, surrounded by vineyards. During my 2015 visit I tasted an impressive lineup of wine.

Kir-Yianni Wines © Spaswinefood

While at Kir-Yianni we also joined by a group of sommeliers from Austria and Greece for the wine tasting. 

Ready to Taste Kir-Yianni Wines © Spaswinefood

Ready to Taste Kir-Yianni Wines © Spaswinefood

Let's Explore Kir-Yianni Wines © Spaswinefood

The tasting was followed by lunch on the patio overlooking the vineyards. 

Lunch, Kir-Yianni 2015 © Spaswinefood

Soon it was time to continue on our Northern Greece wine safari. I wish I could have stayed longer.

Kir-Yianni Vineyard, Naoussa 2015 © Spaswinefood

Is Xinomavro on Fire?

A few days later at #dwcc15 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, as part of a master class entitled Xinomavro on Fire, I would get to re-taste two familiar Xinomavros. These two Xinomavros were included in the group of six chosen to represent Naoussa. They were 1) Kir Yianni, Ramnista XinoMavro, PDO Naoussa 2008 and 2) Boutari, 1879 Legacy Xinomavro Single Vineyard, PDO Naoussa 2007.

Xinomavro On Fire, #DWCC15 © Spaswinefood

The overall lineup of Xinomavros at #dwcc15 was amazing to say the least. Special thanks should be given to Yiannis Karakasis and Gregory Michael's for hosting such a great session. Now the question, "Is Xinomavro on Fire?" The answer is "YES". And "YES, it is especially hot in Naoussa."

It was indeed quite fitting to have been first introduced to Xinomavro wines in 2015. I was most fortunate that my recent wine country travels included a return to Kir-Yiannai. 

Kir-Yianni is a Naoussa Story that continues to unfold. Kir-Yianni is a very special place! YES, they produce other excellent wines besides Xinomavro. Certainly, Sigalas will be exciting part of this story too. Those who have yet discover today's Greek wines from Northern Greece now is the time. Indeed now is the time to explore Greek Wines! I am looking forward to future explorations along the Wine Roads of Northern Greece. I invite you to join me in my wine adventures in Greece at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood  on  Twitter and Facebook. 

Yamas!

Sharon

June 2022

Naoussa, Greece

© Spaswinefood

Kir-Yianni Vineyard, Naoussa © Spaswinefood

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North Greece's Domaine Foundi, Naoussa was an amazing find

My wine travels took me to Domaine Foundi, located 4km outside of Naoussa in North Greece.  This small family winery that has been producing wine since 1992. Their focus is on producing quality Xinomavro wines. My Greek friends know that I am a big fan of Xinomavro since I was first introduced to this wine in 2015; hence when Alexandra recommend this Naoussa winery I had to visit.

Welcome to Domaine Foundi 

Tasting Xinomavro at Domaine Foundi © Spaswinefood

I was happy to sit down with Georgia Foundi and taste Domaine Foundi wines.  I loved their Xinomavro's. All the wines I tasted were 100% Xinomavro.

Domaine Foundi Xinomavro Wines © Spaswinefood

Let's take a closer look at their amazing Xinomavro wines (both PDO and PGI).

1. Katima Foundi, (Trygias) Blanc de Noir, PGI Imathia

Foundi, Blanc de Noir (Xinomavro), PGI Imathia © Spaswinefood

This is a fantastic dry sparkling wine made from Xinomavro grapes.

2. Katima Foundi, White 2021

Katima Foundi White 2021 © Spaswinefood

Foundi White Dry Wine 2021 (back label) © Spaswinefood

3. Ktima Foundi, The Lady of Naoussa Xinomavro 2017

• Ktima Foundi, The Lady of Naoussa Xinomavro 2017 © Spaswinefood

4. Katima Foundi, Red (Estate Single Vineyard Xinomavro) 2018

Katima Foundi, Red (Estate Single Vineyard Xinomavro) 2018 © Spaswinefood

5. Katima Foundi, Rosé Demi-Sec

Katima Foundi, Rosé Demi-Sec © Spaswinefood

A new discovery for me was their Demi-Sec Xinomavro Rosé wine. The evening before in Thessaloniki  I  first tasted this demi-sec Xinomavro. I also tasted Blanc de Noir Xinomavro wines at that event, and so I have now added Foundi PGI wines (Blanc de Noir and Demi-Sec Rosé) to my list of favorite Xinomavro wines.

Thank You, Domaine Foundi © Spaswinefood

Before sitting down to taste the wines during our visit Georgia took us on a brief tour of the winery.

Barrel Room, Domaine Foundi © Spaswinefood

During my visit I discovered that Foundi produces seven different wines (three red wines, three white, and one rosé). 90% of their wines are produced from Xinomavro grapes. The other 10% are from the varieties, Merlot and Malvasia. One of my take aways from my recent visit to North Greece was the amazing range and diversity of Xinomavro wines (both PDO and PGI) available. Domaine Foundi, with its PDO Naoussa and PGI Xinomavro wines, certainly add to that diversity.

The road is well marked to Strantza Municipality where Ktima Foundi is located.

Strantza, Naoussa © Spaswinefood

Just down the road from the winery there are vineyards and agricultural areas, with fruit trees and more. 

Vineyard in Strantza, Naoussa © Spaswinefood

Naoussa offers so much for visitors to enjoy.

Hard to Beat Naoussa in Late Spring © Spaswinefood

Wine enthusiasts who visit North Greece will soon discover that the Naoussa region is a must.

Why North Greece?

I was most fortunate to arrive in Greece before our 10th Winelover Anniversary celebrations June 2022. Even on a tight schedule I just had to return to Naoussa. According to legend Semele, mother of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and fertility, called the area home. She certainly knew that the wines are good here.

Naoussa, North Greece © Spaswinefood

During my earlier visit I not only discovered great wines, but also the beauty of North Greece. Given my tight schedule on my recent trip I decided to focus primarily on Naoussa. The Naoussa Appellation was the first Greek wine region to be made an official appellation in 1971. Wines produced in this appellation are required by appellation law to be made from 100% Xinomavro. Yes, that noble indigenous red grape variety, Xinomavro.  Moreover, some producers make wines from the international grape varieties, such Merlot and Syrah. These wines because of appellation law, are marketed under the Macedonia PGI label. Domaine Foundi, with its PDO Naoussa and PGI Xinomavro wines, clearly, adds to the many exciting wine developments in North Greece.

Domaine Foundi, Naoussa was an amazing find. Special thanks to Georgia Foundi for being such a wonderful host. Their wines are available in the US through Dionysos Imports. For sure one of my take aways from my recent trip to North Greece was the amazing range and diversity of Xinomavro wines available. Special thanks to Alexandra for assisting us in our North Greece travels. Let me not forget my dear friend Carol Hagen who accompanied me on this adventure. Those who have yet discover today's Greek wines from Northern Greece now is the time. Now is the time to explore Greek Wines! I invite you to join me in my wine adventures in Greece at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood  on  Twitter and Facebook. 

Yamas!

Sharon

June 2022

Naoussa, Greece

© Spaswinefood

Domaine Foundi © Spaswinefood

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Frauendorf Winery: Where the Transylvanian spirit is hard at work

From Mediaș to the Frauendorf Winery in Agarbiciu, Sibiu County it was a short drive. The evening before we stayed at the Traube Hotel in Mediaș. We had come to Mediaș to celebrate the First International Fetească Regală Day on June 3, 2022. Before the celebration we did a morning visit to Frauendorf Winery, a nearby winery. Transylvania is known for excellence in white and sparkling wines. I indeed enjoyed the many pleasant surprises as we explored Transylvania's rich wine history.

Welcome to Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Welcome to Frauendorf Winery

We began our day at Frauendorf Winery. For me it was exciting to learn about this new winery.

Arriving at Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Our visit began with a winery tour.

Touring Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

For sure this winery is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for wine production.

Tank Room, Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Their tasting room is very inviting.

Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

At Fraundorf Winery, a young winery, we tasted some of their first vintages. 

Wine tasting, Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Founded in 2016 the winery is now producing its first wines (Riesling de Rhin, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc).

Typically most wine travelers visit established wineries however, it also worth putting a new winery on your list. This is especially true for Romania, which has had to rebuild its wine industry after the revolution. Based on my observations the Transylvanian spirit is hard at work in restoring the Transylvanian viticulture.

Tasting Wines, Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Wine List, Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Frauendorf Winery is a welcoming place. Not only can you taste the wines but also, there is charcuterie to enjoy. Touches like a high-end, gourmet meat slicer, and well done decor make this a classy tasting room experience.

Gourmet Meat Slicer, Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Grape Picker Photo, Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Our visit to Frauendorf Winery gave me a glimpse into how wine making continues to grow this area. Moreover, visitors will find there are also well established local producers, like Jidvei in the Târnavelor area. I look forward to hearing great things about Frauendorf Winery. For, the Transylvanian spirit, is hard at work at this winery.

Along the Route: Axente Sever, Sibiu, Transylvania © Spaswinefood 

From Frauendorf Winery we returned to Mediaș to learn about the rich history of this old wine-trade town. Given the historical significance of Mediaș it was appropriate to celebrate the First International Fetească Regală Day there. Transylvania has been producing wine for centuries, dating back to the 1600's. While the area has been influenced by its many ethnic populations, the Hungarian and German communities have substantially influenced its local culture, and wine making. 

It was awesome to explore Frauendorf Winery in Sibiu County where visitors can also delight in Târnavelor Valley discoveries. For sure Romania is for winelovers therefore I invite you to join me in my travels in Romania and elsewhere at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood on Twitter and Facebook. Special thanks to Razvan Stoenescu, and all of our wonderful Romanian hosts for making my vine-filled explorations so memorable. 

NOROC!

Sharon

June 2022

To Romania with Love

© Spaswinefood

Tasting Room, Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

Welcome to Frauendorf Winery © Spaswinefood

 #Winelover.ro Trip May 31- June 7, 2022 © Spaswinefood

Thank You, Winelover Romania © Spaswinefood

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