Alpha Estate SMX 2023
Alpha Estate SMX 2023 is a dry, full-bodied red from Syrah, Merlot, Xinomavro (Macedonia, Greece), in the rich, smooth reds style. Tannins are moderate and acidity fresh; oak influence is some. Good with lamb, beef stew, roast chicken, roast pork. Drink now or within 15 years (to about 2038). Decant for about 30 minutes. Critic score 94/100 (merchant-reported).
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swinney Frankland River Syrah 2023 Swinney · Western Australia | £22.75 | |||
| Upsidedown Birds Things Flowers Syrah 2022 Upsidedown · Washington | £32.10 | |||
| Shed 530 Estate, Hawke's Bay Syrah 2020 Shed 530 Estate · Hawke's Bay | £18.60 | |||
| Burrowing Owl Athene 2019 Burrowing Owl · Canada | £38.03 |
Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. It is recommended to decant it for half an hour. Located in the heart of PDO Amyndeon, in the wine region of Macedonia, Greece, Alpha Estate was founded in 1995 and today owns approximately 220 hectares of vineyards spread across six plots surrounding the winery. The company was awarded European Winery of the Year in 2020 by Wine Enthusiast magazine and was listed among the 100 best wineries in the world by Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2014. Alpha Estate S.M.X. is a blend of mostly Syrah with equal parts of Merlot and the indigenous Xinomavro. The grapes are sourced from vineyards located on the Amyndeon Plateau, between 620 and 710 meters above sea level. Here, the altitude and the cool climate typical of the area allow the grapes to develop good acidity and a broad aromatic profile. After harvest, cold maceration, and fermentation, the finished wine ages in French oak for 1.5 years and a further year in bottle. In the glass, the wine reveals an intense and deep color, with dark ruby tones and violet reflections. Its aromatic profile is broad and rich, with notes of cherry and plum alternating with hints of vanilla and oak, against a spicy background of black pepper. On the palate, it is full and powerful, generous and concentrated, with firm, well-integrated tannins and a lively vein of refreshing acidity. The finish is long, warm, and layered. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats and roast lamb.