Parparoussis, Taos, Achaia, Peloponnese, Greece, 2012

This small, family-run winery was founded in 1974 by Athanassios Parparoussis who is still head winemaker at the estate, working with his two daughters: Erifili, oenologist and viticulturist, and Dimitra who is in charge of the day-to-day running of the business. The estate is located at Bozaitika in Patras in the northern Peloponnese and proudly promotes indigenous Greek grape varieties. Its vineyards include Assyrtiko, Athiri, Sideritis and Mavrodaphne, planted in various PGIs around the Peloponnese. This particular wine is made from 100% Mavrodaphne and aged in French Allier oak barrels for 24 months. Terry Kandylis: Laurel leaves and sage complexity, with leathery notes and plummy fruit. A very attractive and unique wine, with wonderful acidity and rounded tannins, plus a herbal undertone that is evident on the palate. It’s long, poised and complex, displaying an almost Cabernet Franc character. Yiannis Karakasis MW: This has fine aromatic complexity, with a leafy character but also funky notes on the nose. Very elegant and precise on the palate. A wine of class and character. Nico Manessis: Laurel aromas on the nose, with a strong gamey and botanical imprint. Classy.