For a satisfying, well-balanced red wine, why not try a taste of Crete this weekend? Though perhaps not your immediate go-to choice, wine production in Crete has a long tradition going back more than two thousand years. There are plenty of interesting varieties to try, from Vidiano and Thrapsathiri white wines to the red wines made from Kotsifali, Liatiko and Mantilari grape varieties.
The Kotsifali Lyrarakis 2018 is a very good example of what wines from Crete can be like. It is made from Kotsifali, the classic Cretan black grape variety. This is a grape which typically produces wines which are lightly coloured, with relatively high alcohol, smooth tannins and soft acidity. They are often blended with Mandilaria to add tannin, deepen the colour and temper the alcohol but this wine is 100% Kotsifali.
This is a nicely balanced wine, with red cherries, blackberry and plum on the nose, and raspberry, cherry and warm, sweet spices on the palate. It is a medium bodied wine with medium tannins and medium acidity. A smooth, well-rounded wine which is fine to sit and relax with or enjoy with pasta, lamb or cheese.
Available from a number of stockists, including Cambridge Wine Merchants, Honest Grapes, Thorne Wines, The Whisky Exchange (£11.99-£12.99)