Domaine Menexes – Orange Vilana 2021

The Orange Vilana 2021 from Menexes is a highly recommended interpretation of the Cretan grape variety Vilana. The hint of solvent you notice at first swirls away quickly. Then you can bury your nose in a whole lot of quince. The flavor progression is remarkably dynamic. Loads of candied fruit and varietal-typical citrus emerge. The grippy tannins come from 20 days on the skins. Six months of aging in pitharia on the fine lees round things out nicely, so the wine never becomes overwhelming – even though it clearly calls for food, something like goat meat. The 14.5% alcohol is no joke. But you only feel it once the quite lengthy finish has finally faded. 91 points.