Wines Euboea (Evia) Avantis Estate - Syrah - 2017

Viniou Reviews

The Avantis Estate Syrah Cuvée 2017 from Euboea (Evia) in Greece is a captivating red wine that showcases the distinctive character of the Syrah grape, renowned for its intense and aromatic profile. The 2017 vintage benefits from a particularly favourable growing season, yielding grapes with concentrated flavours and balanced acidity. The terroir of Evia, characterised by its diverse microclimates and varied soils, creates an ideal environment for Syrah. The vinification process is carefully managed to preserve the innate qualities of the grape, resulting in a wine full of rich, dark fruit notes like blackberry and plum, with hints of spice and pepper that are typical of well-crafted Syrah.

The region of Evia, part of Central Greece, is known for its Mediterranean climate, offering warm summers and mild winters, which contribute to the ripeness and richness of the grapes. The soils in this area are quite diverse, ranging from limestone to clay, providing complexity and depth to the wines produced here. The history of viticulture in Greece is ancient, with Evia being no exception, drawing from millennia of tradition and expertise, which artisans like those at Avantis Estate incorporate into their winemaking techniques.

For food pairings, the Avantis Estate Syrah Cuvée 2017 is wonderfully versatile. It complements hearty dishes such as grilled lamb chops with rosemary, beef stew, or roasted duck. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with regional Greek dishes like moussaka or a rich, tomato-based meat stew known as stifado. The wine's robust character also matches well with aged cheeses, which highlight its spicy undertones.

When serving this wine, it is best enjoyed at a temperature of 16-18°C, which allows its complex aromas and flavours to fully express themselves. Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving can also enhance the tasting experience, allowing the wine to open up and reveal its full potential.