Skyphos Xinomavro is a glass of tradition and passion that comes from the slopes of Mount Vermion. But let's proceed in order. We are in Naoussa, in the heart of Macedonia, a historic wine-growing area and one of the most famous in Greece. Here, the vineyards climb to an altitude of 450 metres, blessed with a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. These climatic conditions are also mitigated by the proximity of the Aegean Sea. These temperature variations are a gift for the vines, as they allow the grapes to ripen slowly, developing intense aromas and lively acidity. Artisans de Vignerons de Naoussa is a consortium of small local producers who work to promote the area and its most representative grape variety: Xinomavro. An interesting fact: this wine is one of the first to be awarded the Naoussa Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), one of the first in Greece. Xinomavro is a real challenge for any winemaker. Its name, which means “black acid”, reveals its strong character and marked acidity. But it is precisely this indomitable nature that, when tamed with skill, gives life to extraordinary, complex and long-lived wines. For Skyphos, the grapes are harvested by hand and placed in crates, a meticulous task that ensures the perfect integrity of the bunches. In the cellar, the grapes are destemmed, gently pressed and then fermented at a controlled temperature. The wine is aged in concrete tanks for 12 months. The use of concrete, now back in vogue, preserves the freshness and minerality of the wine, as well as giving it a distinctive texture. In the glass, the wine displays a lively ruby red colour with garnet reflections. The nose is a veritable explosion of aromas: cherry and strawberry, black pepper, a touch of olives and an earthy note reminiscent of undergrowth. It is a complex and intriguing bouquet that changes with every sip. On the palate, its acidity is well present, supported by elegant and not overly aggressive tannins. The taste is fruity, with a nice spicy finish and a lingering aftertaste reminiscent of aromatic herbs. A wine with character, it is designed to give its best in the first 4-5 years. However, its solid structure and acidity allow it to evolve for several years in the bottle, acquiring greater complexity. Its strong character makes it perfect for pairing with rich and flavourful dishes. Try it with red wine braised beef: the acidity of the wine will help to cleanse the palate and balance the succulence of the meat. It is also excellent with game, such as wild boar stew.