Oenotria Land (Costa Lazaridi) – Syrah - Agiorgitiko 2020

Domaine Costa Lazaridi's Oenotria Land Syrah–Agiorgitiko 2020 is a blend of 90% Syrah and 10% Agiorgitiko from PGI Attica, produced under organic (BIO) certification. The author had previously enjoyed the Cabernet Sauvignon–Agiorgitiko version of the Oenotria Land series – a wine shaped by the influence of consultant Michel Rolland – finding it quite unique in profile, at least in the 2018 vintage tasted two years prior. This Syrah-based sibling from 2020 offers lovely aromas of plums, which paired beautifully with a spicy Moschari Kokkinisto sauce. The tannins are quite smooth, and there is noticeably less leather and tobacco character compared to the Oenotria Land Cabernet Sauvignon–Agiorgitiko. It also seems to hold less aging potential than that wine. At 91 points, this is a really good wine, though not cheap at 45–50€ – it might be worth seeking out a different vintage for better value. On a broader note, the author holds the minority opinion that Agiorgitiko pairs better with Cabernet Sauvignon than with Syrah as a blending partner.