Without a doubt, Serres is not a region that automatically comes to mind when discussing wine, even within the context of Northern Greece. However, in the past decade, the previously obscure vineyard has shown significant potential, with Romalidis Estate being one of the wineries at the forefront of this revival.
Nikos Romalidis`s venture takes place in the semi-mountainous village of Ambelous, on the slopes above the beautiful Kerkini Lake, reaching an altitude of 360 metres. In his vineyard, we can find both indigenous and international grape varieties, ranging from Zoumiati and Limnio to Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon! The latter, which is cultivated organically along with all the other varieties on the estate, provides the raw material for the namesake cuvée, which has captured my attention at several exhibitions.
The colour of this red wine is quite dense and dark, which is to be expected given that it comes from the highly pigmented Cabernet. Its aroma is equally dense and dark, dominated by perfectly ripened black fruits, while the ever-present herbaceousness of the variety is expressed more as nettle and mint rather than grass. It is a lovely nose, and after a little time in the glass, it will also reveal hints of ash, reminiscent of Pessac Léognan!
The wine may have a richer body than the 13.5% indicated on the label might suggest; at the same time, the relatively low alcohol content ensures a good balance of sweetness and acidity. Of course, a Cabernet is always a Cabernet, which means that currently, the flavour profile tilts towards aggressiveness due to the abundant, strong tannins. This, however, is expected to change after 3-5 years of aging, with this potential being upheld by the persistent flavour of the wine.
Nikos Romalidis`s venture takes place in the semi-mountainous village of Ambelous, on the slopes above the beautiful Kerkini Lake, reaching an altitude of 360 metres. In his vineyard, we can find both indigenous and international grape varieties, ranging from Zoumiati and Limnio to Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon! The latter, which is cultivated organically along with all the other varieties on the estate, provides the raw material for the namesake cuvée, which has captured my attention at several exhibitions.
The colour of this red wine is quite dense and dark, which is to be expected given that it comes from the highly pigmented Cabernet. Its aroma is equally dense and dark, dominated by perfectly ripened black fruits, while the ever-present herbaceousness of the variety is expressed more as nettle and mint rather than grass. It is a lovely nose, and after a little time in the glass, it will also reveal hints of ash, reminiscent of Pessac Léognan!
The wine may have a richer body than the 13.5% indicated on the label might suggest; at the same time, the relatively low alcohol content ensures a good balance of sweetness and acidity. Of course, a Cabernet is always a Cabernet, which means that currently, the flavour profile tilts towards aggressiveness due to the abundant, strong tannins. This, however, is expected to change after 3-5 years of aging, with this potential being upheld by the persistent flavour of the wine.
The Riedel Vinum Bordeaux glass stands out among the large formats preferred for such a well-structured wine, while its low alcohol content allows for serving at 16-18°C, which helps soften the overall profile. Naturally, it will be further softened by medium-rare fatty cuts, as well as a buffalo steak from the local area!
The Cabernet Sauvignon from Romalidis Estate has managed to confirm its quality even at home, justifying its price of €18. If Serres is fighting to establish its presence in the world of wine, then this wine is the spearhead of their efforts!
Rating: 8/10.
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