Biblia Chora Areti Red 2013 750ml

The 2013 Areti Red, an Agiorgitiko, was aged for 12 months in 60% new French oak (somewhat different information than the last time this was submitted) and comes in at 13.95% alcohol. This is an Agiorgitiko with some class and distinction. When last seen, closer to release, it was very promising and quite the overachiever. Some five years on, it has rounded into form and justified my enthusiasm. Sensually textured, this caresses the palate with velvet. Then it adds some strawberry nuances cut with the occasional truffle. Some Agiorgitikos get a Pinot-like demeanor. This might lean very slightly to Grenache, something I don’t often say. Despite the extra age, this still has grip on the finish and that finish lingers nicely. Solid in the mid-palate too, it seems perfectly crafted. As well as it shows now—and it is ready—it should have plenty of life left. Let’s be a bit more cautious this time, although it may do better. Needless to say, this is a fine bargain.

• Country: Greece
• Region: Macedonia
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red

Varietal

Agiorgitiko

The Agiorgitiko grape varietal is grown widely throughout Greece and certain other countries, and is prized for the fact it is highly heat resistant, and can thrive on even quite arid and infertile land. It has been cultivated for millennia in the Nemea region of the Peloponnese mountains, where it remains highly popular to this day. It is a grape varietal which can take on wide range of characteristics, from highly tannic and astringent to rather soft and rounded, and responds well to a variety of wine making techniques and methods. Typically, the Agiorgitiko grape varietal produces wines which are quite spicy, and hold plummy and dark fruit flavors It has been successfully blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, and is a popular grape varietal in many countries around the world.