Emblematic Greek red blend uniting 80% Agiorgitiko with 20% Cabernet Sauvignon from high-altitude Nemea vineyards, aged 18 months in French oak.
Ktima Skouras Megas Oenos 2020 represents a defining moment in modern Greek winemaking. This emblematic blend unites indigenous Agiorgitiko from high-altitude Nemea vineyards with mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, matured in new French barriques for 18 months and bottle-aged for over a decade. The result is a wine of depth, complexity, and remarkable finesse that showcases the concentrated character of low-yield viticulture from vines between 38 and 74 years old.
Why This Wine Stands Apart
- Historic Greek-international varietal blend: 80% Agiorgitiko, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon from Protected Geographical Indication Peloponnese
- Sourced from high-altitude vineyards at 700 meters in Nemea's Gymno slopes and mountainous Corinthia on rocky soils
- Matured 18 months in new French oak barriques with 4 months on light lees, plus 6 months bottle aging before release
- Vines aged 38-74 years producing ultra-low yields of 22.5-27.5 hl/ha for concentrated fruit expression
- Intense garnet color with aromas of raspberry, cherry, blackberry, cloves, black pepper, tobacco, and leather
- Silky palate with gentle tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, complex finish at 14.5% alcohol
- The emblematic wine that launched Ktima Skouras in 1986 and pioneered Greek varietal blending
Vineyard and Winemaking Details
The Agiorgitiko grapes come from Ktima Skouras vineyards in Gymno, Nemea, while the Cabernet Sauvignon is cultivated in the mountainous region of Corinthia. Both sites sit at 2,132 feet elevation on rocky terrain, where cool nights and warm days allow slow, even ripening. The oldest Agiorgitiko vines date back to 1939, while the Cabernet Sauvignon vines average 45 years of age.
Harvest occurs in mid-September when phenolic ripeness peaks. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats at 23°C, followed by post-fermentation maceration at 20°C. Total extraction time varies by variety: 17 days for Agiorgitiko and 15 days for Cabernet Sauvignon. Full malolactic fermentation occurs in French oak, where the wine then rests for 18 months in new barriques, spending four months in contact with light lees to build texture and complexity.
Technical Profile: 14.5% alcohol by volume, total acidity 5.9 g/l tartaric, pH 3.5. Classification: Protected Geographical Indication Peloponnese, dry red wine. Vintage: 2014. Volume: 750ml.
About Ktima Skouras
Ktima Skouras has championed modern Greek winemaking since launching Megas Oenos in 1986. The winery combines indigenous varieties with international cultivars, sourcing from high-altitude Peloponnese vineyards where old vines and rocky soils produce wines of exceptional concentration and regional character.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes the 2014 vintage special?
- The 2014 vintage benefits from over a decade of bottle aging, allowing the Agiorgitiko and Cabernet Sauvignon to fully integrate. The extended maturation reveals developed tertiary aromas of tobacco and leather alongside primary fruit notes.
- What food pairs well with this wine?
- This structured red complements grilled lamb, beef stews, aged cheeses, and Mediterranean dishes with robust flavors. The silky tannins and balanced acidity make it versatile for pairing with rich, savory preparations.
- How should I store and serve this wine?
- Store in a cool, dark place at 12-16°C. Serve at 16-18°C to allow the complex aromas to unfold. Decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving enhances the wine's expression and softens the tannins.
- What is the aging potential of Megas Oenos 2014?
- While already showing excellent maturity after a decade, this vintage can continue to develop for several more years under proper cellaring conditions. The balance of acidity, tannins, and alcohol supports graceful aging.
Discover a landmark expression of Greek winemaking where indigenous heritage meets international finesse in every bottle.
Experience the elegance of Ktima Skouras Megas Oenos 2020, a distinguished Greek red wine blend of 80% Agiorgitiko and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, matured in French oak, showcasing the rich terroir of high-altitude Nemea.