Description
Xinomavro, meaning 'sour black', is the most important red grape of northern Greece and the only variety allowed in the red wines of Naoussa. DNA work shows Gouais Blanc as one of its parents. Its wines are rather pale but high in tannin and acidity, and they need time; aromas run from strawberry and sour cherry to tomato, olive and sweet spices. It is also made into rosé and white blanc de noirs.
Characteristics
Red wine grape; Greek origin; medium bunches and berries; vigorous and productive; late ripening, about five weeks after Chasselas; high acidity and tannin; moderate colour; used for ageworthy reds, rosé and blanc de noirs
Growing Tips
Xinomavro is vigorous and productive. It is pruned short and does best on light, not very fertile soils. It ripens late and needs warmth, and it can show potassium and boron deficiency. French trials rate it sensitive to downy mildew, powdery mildew and grey rot. Keep yields moderate, because heavy crops give unbalanced wines.