Wines Naoussa Kir-Yianni - Ramnista - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The Kir-Yianni Ramnista 2020 is a celebrated red wine hailing from the esteemed Naoussa appellation in Macedonia, northern Greece. This cuvée is crafted predominantly from the region's flagship grape, Xinomavro, renowned for its vibrant acidity, robust tannic structure, and remarkable ageing potential. The 2020 vintage benefited from favourable climatic conditions, allowing a perfect balance between ripeness and freshness. Grapes for Ramnista typically come from selected vineyard parcels, offering sandy and loamy soils at varying altitudes, which impart both structure and finesse. Vinification in Kir-Yianni’s modern cellars involves careful temperature-controlled fermentation and patient maturation in a mix of French and American oak barrels, enhancing complexity without overpowering the grape’s characteristic aromatics.

Naoussa, nestled at the foothills of Mount Vermio, is one of Greece’s most historic and acclaimed wine regions. The area's continental climate is tempered by cooling mountain breezes and moderate rainfall, fostering gradual grape maturation. Naoussa’s terroir is composed primarily of clay and limestone, contributing both minerality and structure to its wines. The tradition of viticulture in this Macedonian region dates back centuries, with Xinomavro being its proud ambassador, often compared to Nebbiolo for its aromatic profile and ageing capacity.

This expressive red lends itself to an array of food pairings. Its elevated acidity and finely etched tannins make it a superb companion for slow-cooked lamb, grilled veal, or robust beef stews. Traditional Greek dishes, such as lamb kleftiko or moussaka, will marry beautifully with Ramnista’s savoury and earthy notes. Mushroom risotto, aubergine-based recipes, and mature hard cheeses also highlight the wine’s complexity and depth.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting will soften the tannins and fully reveal the intricate bouquet of red berries, dried herbs, olives, and spices. Ramnista 2020 promises both immediate pleasure and significant reward with 5-10 years of cellar ageing.