Wines Nemea VASILIO - Nemea Grande Reserve - 2021

VASILIO's Cuvée Nemea Grande Reserve 2021 hails from one of Greece’s most celebrated red wine appellations, Nemea, set in the heart of the Peloponnese. This region is renowned for producing robust and aromatic red wines, most often from the indigenous Agiorgitiko grape, though the blend here is not fully specified. Typically, such wines display a deep ruby hue, with notes of ripe red fruits—think plum and cherry—layered with hints of sweet spice and a subtle earthiness. The "Grande Reserve" indication suggests extended maturation, likely in oak barrels, which would add complexity and round tannins, lending the wine a harmonious structure suited for ageing.

Nemea itself is steeped in viticultural history, known since ancient times as the “blood of Hercules” region. Vineyards are often planted at various altitudes, influencing the resulting wine’s fruit character and elegance. The climate combines warm, sun-drenched days and cooler nights, which helps to preserve acidity and freshness. The soils are generally clay-limestone, providing good drainage and supporting nuanced, expressive wines.

The opulent, structured style of this Nemea makes it an excellent companion for grilled lamb chops, slow-roasted pork with thyme, or the classic Greek dish stifado—beef or venison stew simmered with onions and spices. It also pairs beautifully with hard cheeses like aged graviera and, for a more Mediterranean touch, aubergine moussaka or roasted wild mushrooms.

To best appreciate this wine’s depth and aroma, serve it at 16-18°C after allowing it to breathe for a short while—decanting for up to an hour would further enhance the layered flavours and mellow the tannins. This cuvée is both approachable now and promising for several years of cellaring, revealing increasing complexity with time.