Santa Irene — Vounoplagia 2019

Tasted as part of a Cypriot white wine line-up, the Vounoplagia 2019 from Santa Irene is a Xynisteri in a completely different style than, say, the Xynisteri 2020 from Ktima Anaxagora. What strikes you immediately are the overripe notes, especially quince. Floral notes also lend the wine a certain weight, with corn poppy coming to mind in particular. But then herbs like mint and a hint of eucalyptus come into play, so the wine still radiates freshness. On the palate, this wine is demanding, not least because of the tannins. The acidity, on the other hand, is pleasant, and the 13.5% alcohol is very well integrated. The finish is invigorating. This wine practically insists on being a complex food companion. Particularly intriguing: 20% is aged in amphorae (pitharia). An excellent 90 points.