2013 Thymiopoulos “Young Vines” Xinomavro, Macedonia, Greece (Alcohol 13.5%) LCBO Vintages $17.95
And the award for LCBO bargain of 2016 goes to this stunning Young Vines Xinomavro. Simply astounding.
This last-minute candidate for my most recommended wine of 2016 was brought to my attention by the intrepid Will Predhomme, and I’m so very glad that I followed up upon his endorsement and travelled across Toronto to track down a few bottles.
As far as I can see, the west end of the city is now pretty much devoid of inventory, but if you live outside the city or in the east you should be able to scour the shelves for some. I’ll be out on the hunt for some myself this very afternoon, so if you spot some downtown please be in touch ASAP.
These young vines appear to be able to produce the impossible, an eminently approachable Xinomavro with only three years of ageing, and in a wallet-friendly offering present all of the delicious things that this much under-appreciated varietal is capable of.
You’ll find some of the gorgeous, fresh, pretty fruit that one often finds in better Pinot Noirs, as well as a gentle but determined tannic architecture that is in many ways reminiscent of the Langhe Nebbiolo. Bright berry fruit abounds, with pleasantly striking cranberry-like acidity that really comes to the fore with a bit of a chill on the bottle.
Gorgeous, and way under-priced.
(Five apples out of a possible five)
Edinburgh-born/Toronto-based Sommelier, consultant, writer, judge, and educator Jamie Drummond is the Director of Programs/Editor of Good Food Revolution… And that one cracking bottle of wine.
