Domaine Karanika Cuvee Celeste Brut Nature 2019

Domaine Karanika Cuvee Celeste Brut Nature 2019

Domaine Karanika
$60.00

Grape: Xinomavro
Vintage: 2019
Type: Sparkling

Sourced from organic, high-altitude vineyards in Amyndeon, northern Greece, this single-varietal Blanc de Noirs is crafted by Laurens Hartman using the traditional method. Rooted in sandy, limestone-rich soils, the hand-picked xinomavro grapes undergo a gentle whole-cluster pressing to yield clear juice with zero color extraction. Spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts takes place in neutral stainless steel before the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle. It ages on its fine lees for several years to develop autolytic depth before being disgorged without any added dosage (brut nature). This is a precise, razor-sharp Greek sparkler defined by high natural acidity and pristine mineral drive.

It pours a pale yellow-gold hue with an energetic, fine bead of bubbles, opening with focused aromas of tart green apple, brioche, lemon curd, and a subtle hint of dried tomato leaf. The palate is dry, crisp, and linear, delivering energetic flavors of sour cherry, white peach, crushed sea salt, and toasted almond. Zero dosage leaves the wine's vibrant, mouthwatering acidity completely unmasked, driving a lean, chiseled mouthfeel with exceptional focus. It concludes on a long, bone-dry finish marked by lingering notes of citrus pith, chalk, and wild herbs.

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.