Wines Nemea Bairaktaris - Terra Opus - 2019

Bairaktaris Cuvée Terra Opus 2019 hails from the historic Nemea appellation, situated in the north-eastern Peloponnese of Greece. This red wine, labelled as “sec”, typically expresses the character of the region with a robust, dry profile. While the precise blend is not detailed, Nemea reds are most often based on Agiorgitiko, a grape lauded for producing wines of deep ruby colour, medium to full body, and a pleasing balance between ripe fruit and supple tannins. The 2019 vintage experienced a growing season marked by typical Mediterranean influences, likely yielding grapes of excellent ripeness and aromatic complexity. The winemaking at Bairaktaris is reputed for a respectful approach to the grape and terrain, aiming to capture freshness and varietal character.

Nemea is arguably the most important red wine region of Greece, renowned for its ancient tradition and mythical associations dating back to Hercules. Vineyards here sprawl between 250 and 800 metres above sea level, benefitting from cooling breezes off the Gulf of Corinth and a mosaic of soils, from clay-limestone to sandy loam. This combination cultivates wines admired for both their depth and elegance, with Agiorgitiko showing notes ranging from cherry and red plum to subtle spices and sometimes hints of dried herbs or cocoa.

The style of this wine is well suited to a wide array of food pairings. Classically, it would shine alongside regional specialities like lamb slow-cooked with garlic and oregano, moussaka, or kokkinisto (beef or veal in tomato sauce). The supple structure and vivid acidity also complement grilled vegetables and hard Mediterranean cheeses, making it a versatile choice for hearty cuisine. For the curious, it can stand up to game dishes, or even a rustic, herbed chicken.

When serving, allow the wine to breathe after opening to enhance its aromatic complexity. The ideal service temperature is around 16-18°C, which will allow the wine’s fruit, spice, and earthy undertones to unfold gracefully. If cellaring, this vintage has the potential to evolve further over the next few years.