The 2008 XINOMAVRO EMEROS white is a blanc de noir. The brand name “Emeros” means “desire,” as in desire for perfection, according to the winery. Some think Xinomavro is an acquired taste; if so, blanc de noir Xinomavro is even more so. This has a fairly rich texture, and a fruity yet distinctive flavor on the finish. I like this rather better than examples I’ve had in the past, but it certainly has its own personality, a little spicy, perhaps, gripping, and with a bit of a sour lemonball note on the finish. Drink now-2011. Vaeni Naoussa is a co-op that takes a large part of the Naoussa region’s production. Its focus has traditionally been on Xinomavro, making both white wines (from red grapes) and reds.Importer: Stellar Importing Co., Whitestone, N.Y.; tel: (718) 352-1180

Ripe and a touch brooding, with plum pudding and dried black fig flavors that turn thick and tannic midpalate. Iodine and sanguine notes fill the finish. Drink now. 9,665 cases made, 450 cases imported.??–KM??Region: Greece / Naoussa Select to Add