Papagiannakos Erythros Agiorgitko / Cabernet Sauvignon

A lovely introduction to the classic Greek Agiorgitiko (pronounced 'Ah-yor-YEE-te-ko' !) grape.

Domaine Papagiannakos was established in 1919 in the heart of the plain of Mesogaia, Attica - just 30km from the shadow of the Acropolis. Third generation winemaker, Vassilis Papagiannakos, was born and bred in Markopoulo, and grew up around the family winery. At that time the Savatiano variety was the winery' s sole focus - but later Malagouzia was introduced, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and other varieties. Vassilis owns 10 hectares of vineyard in the Attica region, and maintains long-term leases on a further 20 hectares, with vines on average 50-60 years old. Rocky, sandy, clay topsoil nurtures low yielding bush vines - extremely limited irrigation is employed. The Papagiannakos family continues its traditions whilst bringing the winery into the 21st Century with a stunning and innovative bioclimatic winery.

Both the indigenous Agiorgitiko grapes and Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from gently sloping Peloponnese vineyards. Each grape is vinified separately. After a 5-day pre-fermentation cold soak, the must undergoes a 15 day vinification at controlled temperatures. After a 12 month maturation in new French oak barrels the blending of Agiorgitiko and Cabernet Sauvignon takes place.

Great with steak, or try lamb-stuffed peppers.