Astir X Winery — Fare Rebels Red 2017

The Fare Rebels Agiorgitiko 2017 from Astir X Winery (PGI Peloponnese, 100% Agiorgitiko, 12.5%) hails from Kalamata in Messinia -- the family history of the estate dates back to 1930, and today Astir X works with 88 local winegrowers across approximately 80 hectares of vineyard area. The name 'Fare' likely refers to ancient Pharai, the former name of Kalamata, and to the Greek Revolution of 1821, which began there. The wine sees no oak aging and is clearly geared toward fruit expression and early accessibility. The producer describes it as 'full-bodied,' which at 12.5% alcohol sounds like a contradiction -- and indeed it is one. On the nose it is still quite appealing, with vegetal notes. On the palate, the attack is grippy, also with good acidity, but then it fades very quickly. The finish is not unpleasant, simply too short. 84 points.