Tasting notes:

Alpha Estate, a 69-hectare vineyard in the Macedonia area of northwest Greece, is owned by viticulturist Makis Mavridis and oenologist Angelos Iatridis, and produces this intriguing blend of international varieties Syrah and Merlot with the indigenous Xinomavro. Deep ruby-coloured, the wine has bright raspberry, dark cherry and blackberry fruit, with an undertone of vanilla oak. Just dry and vibrant, the mid-weight palate shows crisp acidity and silky tannins balancing the fruit, and allspice and nutmeg accents adding complexity. A beautiful wine that would be a good pairing for a Moroccan lamb tagine. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)