Harvest 2018
2018 was a very premature year. Winter was mild and that had as a result the premature breaking of the buds in mid-March, about 12 days ahead of time. During March and April there was no rain, while April had unseasonably higher temperatures (about 30 oC) that favoured early maturation. During the first week of May the first rains fell (45mm), while the rest of the month had no rains, unseasonably low temperatures and cloudy days. In June drought prevailed, with an exception of June 26 when heavy rainfall occurred (35mm), and low for the season temperatures that delayed maturation. From end of June till end of the harvest no rain occurred. The temperature spanned around 30-32 oC during daytime and 20-21oC during nighttime. The weather conditions throughout the year enhanced primary flavours and exceptional phenolic ripeness.
The harvest rolled along. It started on August 5 with Sauvignon Blanc and continued with Chardonnay, Viognier, Malagousia and Assyrtiko. The harvest of the red grapes started on August 13 and ended on September 8, when Xinomavro was picked.
Harvest 2018 gave a slightly smaller production (about 5%) but excellent results, with optimal growing and maturation conditions. The white wines are full-bodied with good acidity and rich in primary aromas, while the reds have excellent phenolic ripeness, great structure and concentrated varietal aromas.
