SHIRAZ VLASSIDES

The harvest of 2023 was one of the longest in recent years for Vlassides Winery, beginning in early August and ending in late October. This practically means numerous hours of work under challenging weather conditions for the winery staff. On the occasion provided to us through the 2023 harvest report, we would like to express our gratitude to all the people working at the winery. They consistently exceed our expectations with each harvest, surpassing themselves, driven by their passion for work, which ultimately translates into exceptional wines.

The total production in 2023 was lower compared to the overproductive harvest of 2022, especially for the indigenous Xynisteri variety, which returned to its normal yields due to overall abiotic stress. Another factor that affected production was the intense hailstorms during the flowering period in the vicinity of the winery, particularly affecting the Koloni vineyard. That led to a production decrease of up to 25% in that specific area, primarily impacting the Shiraz variety. Additionally, a summer fire in the eastern region of Afamis mountain further contributed to a reduction in production across all vineyards in the area.

Sophocles Vlassides commented on the harvest of 2023, stating, “A memorable aspect of the 2023 harvest is the prolonged period of high temperatures from mid-July to mid-August during the day, which were offset by low temperatures during the night. This specific abiotic factor also played a significant role in producing healthy and phenolically ripe grapes in the varieties that we vinify.”

The total amount of rainfall in our area from October 2022 to September 2023 was approximately 750mm. The distribution of rainfall was better compared to 2022  remaining consistent throughout the growing season, except during the summer months.

The winter experienced mild cold temperatures. However, by the end of spring, low temperatures in May caused a ten-day delay in the ripening of the harvest. Throughout the summer months, the absence of rainfall, combined with high temperatures in July, led to intense abiotic stress during veraison in our vineyards.

Apostolos Grigoriou, the agronomist of Vlassides Winery, stated: “Τhe normal temperatures of August and the relatively low temperatures of September provided mild ripening for red varieties, resulting in high-quality phenolic characteristics.”

The phenological stages in the 2023 harvest were as follows:

• Expansion: Late April
• Flowering: Second half of May to late May
• Veraison: Mid-July
• Harvest: Early August to late October

According to Panos Magalios, the winery’s oenologist: “The outcomes of the 2023 harvest are already reflected in the sensory characteristics and laboratory analyses of both white and red wines, largely meeting the winery’s stringent quality standards.”

The 2023 vintages of Grifos 2 and Sauvignon blanc showcase intense aromatic profiles, predominantly characterized by exotic fruit notes, complemented by refreshing acidity. The Xynisteri grapes sourced from old vines in Afamis area, used in Alάtes, have endowed the wine with a rich body and outstanding balance between alcohol and acidity. Regarding Assyrtiko, with each passing year and the maturation of the vines, the wine’s final expression reflects the variety’s typical traits, exhibiting aromatic and flavor profiles reminiscent of citrus and mineral elements, all harmonized by its crisp acidity and full-bodied structure.

The 2023 harvest proved to be successful for the red grape varieties of the winery. As a result, the initial samples of the wines show great promise for the future. Giannoudi, designated for Όroman 2023, boasts an aromatic intensity and complexity of forest fruits and spices, accompanied by a pleasant presence of tannins, generous volume, and a satisfying length in the aftertaste. Shiraz presents intense fruity and peppery aromas, with a relatively lower alcohol content compared to previous years, and moderate acidity that harmonizes beautifully with its tannins and full-bodied character. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot display remarkable chromatic intensity, with aromas that evoke the unique characteristics of each grape variety. They feature moderate acidity, rich tannins, and an elegant aftertaste. Agiorgitiko exhibits outstanding expression, both rich in aroma and flavor, with pronounced tannins, full-bodied structure, and initial indications of potential for long-term aging. All red wines are currently undergoing maturation in French oak barrels and will continue to develop until next winter. We eagerly anticipate tasting the final outcome… how about you?