Domaine Karanika Cuvee Speciale Extra Brut 2023
Domaine Karanika Cuvee Speciale Extra Brut 2023 – alternate view 2
1 - 2

Domaine Karanika Cuvee Speciale Extra Brut 2023

Domaine Karanika
$40.00

Grape: Xinomavro, Assyrtiko
Vintage: 2023
Type: Sparkling

Grown on the high-altitude continental plateau of Amyntaio, this organic sparkling white wine represents a traditional method blend of ninety percent xinomavro and ten percent assyrtiko. Winemaker Laurens Hartman selects hand-harvested fruit from old bush vines rooted in poor, sandy soils that force deep growth. The base wine undergoes a gentle whole-cluster press and spontaneous native fermentation, avoiding synthetic cellar additions. Secondary fermentation occurs inside the bottle, followed by a lengthy maturation on the lees before a low-dosage disgorgement.

It displays a pale straw-yellow hue with a persistent, fine bead, releasing aromas of green apple, sourdough crust, white peach, and tomato water. A light-to-medium-bodied frame balances a razor-sharp entry with a biscuity weight from the lees. A driving line of high-toned acidity cuts through the mousse, giving the wine strong structural tension. Clean flavors of citrus oil interweave with a marine salinity across mid-palate.

Domaine Karanika is Laurens Hartman-Karanika and Annette van Kampen's organic and biodynamic estate in Amyndeon, the cool, high-altitude plateau of northwestern Greece. Drawn to the region's naturally high acidity and old Xinomavro vines, they built the domaine around traditional-method sparkling wine while also producing still wines from Xinomavro, Assyrtiko and other varieties. The winery is largely subterranean and designed to work with the local climate, with solar energy and composting integrated into the farm. Karanika's wines are precise, dry and vibrant, establishing Xinomavro as a compelling source of serious Greek sparkling wine.