Thymiopoulos Vineyards Xinomavro Erde und Himmel 2023

Thymiopoulos Vineyards’ *Erde und Himmel* Xinomavro 2022 is a characterful red from the hills of Naoussa in Macedonia, northern Greece, crafted from one of the country’s most important native grapes. It brings together old-world elegance and Mediterranean warmth, offering a wine that feels at once distinctive and surprisingly familiar to lovers of Nebbiolo or fine Pinot Noir. Named “Earth and Sky” for its deep connection to place, this cuvée has become a reference point for modern Greek red wine.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2022 shows a vibrant, medium ruby color with garnet highlights at the rim, signaling both freshness and a touch of seriousness. The nose is layered and expressive: dark cherries and wild berries mingle with notes of dried tomato, sun‑baked herbs, black olive and a gentle hint of spice and vanilla from barrel aging. Subtle floral tones and a faint earthiness add complexity as the wine opens in the glass. On the palate, this is a finely etched, medium‑bodied Xinomavro with lively acidity and a firm yet refined tannic backbone. Flavors of sour cherry, plum skin and redcurrant are intertwined with savory nuances of oregano, thyme, dried tomato and a whisper of tobacco and underbrush. The finish is long, dry and precise, with a mouthwatering, almost saline edge that invites another sip. While the wine is accessible in its youth with some aeration, its structure suggests very good aging potential over the next 8–12 years, during which the fruit will take on more tertiary, earthy and truffle‑like nuances.

Production
The grapes for Erde und Himmel are sourced from selected parcels in Naoussa, in the Macedonian region of northern Greece, where Xinomavro thrives on well‑drained, rocky soils and a continental climate tempered by cooling mountain influences. The combination of altitude, poor soils and significant diurnal temperature swings helps preserve acidity and build aromatic complexity. Thymiopoulos is known for thoughtful, vineyard‑driven farming, with careful hand harvesting to ensure only healthy, optimally ripe bunches reach the cellar. In the winery, Xinomavro is typically vinified with a gentle touch: fermentation using native yeasts, moderate extraction to tame the naturally robust tannins, and aging in a mix of vessels (often including older oak) that allows the grape’s varietal character and the Naoussa terroir to shine rather than be masked by heavy wood.

Food & Serving
Erde und Himmel Xinomavro 2022 is a versatile food wine that pairs beautifully with Mediterranean‑inspired dishes. Think grilled lamb chops with herbs, slow‑braised beef or lamb stews, moussaka, roasted vegetables with tomato and olive, or hard and semi‑hard cheeses such as aged Manchego or Pecorino. It also works well with dishes featuring mushrooms, tomato‑based sauces or savory, herb‑driven flavors. Serve at 16–18 °C (slightly cooler than typical room temperature) to highlight its freshness and aromatics. Decanting for 45–60 minutes is recommended in its youth to help the tannins relax and to let the savory and herbal notes fully emerge.

Producer
Thymiopoulos Vineyards, led by Apostolos Thymiopoulos, has become one of the leading names in modern Greek wine, and particularly in the Naoussa appellation. Based in Macedonia, the estate has played a key role in redefining Xinomavro from a rustic, tannic curiosity into a world‑class, terroir‑expressive variety capable of great finesse and longevity. By focusing on careful vineyard work, sensitive winemaking and often using indigenous yeasts and minimal intervention, Thymiopoulos has helped put Naoussa on the map for international wine lovers. The Erde und Himmel cuvée is widely regarded as one of the benchmark expressions of Xinomavro, consistently earning acclaim for its balance of structure, fragrance and drinkability.