The Colour of Wine by Nikos Karatzas

Few weeks later I received two samples, a white and a rose which are produced under Oenops Wines brand. Karatzas says that Oenops means the one that has the colour of wine as it is stated in Odyssey Rhapsody A for the Pontos Sea. Vintage 2015 was produced in Lalikos winery which supported Karatzas in his very first steps. Now a new winery is founded in Drama region aiming for approximately 30.000 bottles for vintage 2016. 

''2015 was n-1 vintage for Oenops producing just two wines under the Apla (translates as simply or naturally) series while 2016 will also provide a red and some premium products from old vines and single vineyards'' he speaks with passion. His philosophy is to find great parcels and quality oriented growers for producing wines with character. 

I am familiar with this ''Burgundy model'' where there is partnership with growers in a negociant style and and I think it can be a real success when talented personalities, like Karatzas are involved. 

And what about the wines? The white this year is a Malagousia (2016 will be a blend based in Malagousia) and the rose a Xinomavro-Cabernet Sauvignon (60%-40%) which are produced under Karatzas winemaking philosophy that emphasizes the terroir expression and the variety's typicity. 

Apla White 2015

Yellow colour with a ripe nose full of tropical fruit like pineapple along rose petals and some herbal rosemary notes. Concentrated with sound intensity it has a phenolic grip on the finish. Would love an extra touch of freshness. 2016-2018. 89

Apla Rose 2015

Pale salmon, not another Provence look alike. Bright nose with cherries, laurel, tomato undertones and sweet spices. Ripe and fresh. Mint and basil on the palate with bright acidity, low tannins and fruit purity. Excellent wine with plenty of flavour. 2016-2018. 91