Ktima Tselepou — Avlotopi Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

The Αυλοτόπι from Ktima Tselepou, a winery best known for its Moschofilero, comes from vines at 700 metres elevation in the PGI Tegea – an origin you rarely get to taste. The wine is among the pricier Greek Cabernet Sauvignons and can be found in Germany for just over 20 euros. For that price, it does disappoint somewhat in the context of a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon tasting. On the nose, the 2019 vintage comes across as quite harmonious, integrating the 14.5% alcohol with good primary fruit. On the palate, however, the tannins of the youngest wine in the tasting still show a demanding, mineral character, leaving little aromatic room beyond juniper berry. This is a wine that needs more time. Yiannis Karakasis, based on tasting the 2001, attested to a longevity of a good 20 years, while four years had been too little for the 2012. Accordingly, one can surmise that the 2019 hasn't peaked yet either. At this point in time, a very good 87+ points.