Wine Region: Limassol

(2016) What a treat to find this wine in the UK thanks to Daily Drinker: I've judged the Cyprus National Wine Awards three times now, most recently in 2016, and have visited these phenomenal vineyards at 1500 metres altitude which they claim to be Europe's highest. I have also tasted a vertical of this wine back to the 2002, proving it ages well. It's a serious, Chablis-style wine made from the native Xinisteri and gently touched by oak. Shimmering and bright, there is vanilla and oatmeal over ultra-fresh citrus and apple, a little salty mineral note too. All of that combines on the palate rather beautifully: its not flashy or outgoing, but has a winning balance of fruit and nervous energy, and a long, mineral finish.

(2012) Too much oak here? It is big, balsamic and even a touch seaweedy, though the huge fruit richness on the palate is impressive.

(2012) Big aromatics here, citrus peel, peach skins, with vivid fruit flavour and a racy palate.

(2012) Floral, kirsch-like lift here that is delightful. Plenty of oak, but the fruit is so glossy and punchy, the whole thing very vibrant, but equally harmonious.

(2012) 100% Xynisteri, this has piercing aromatics, almost Sauvignon Blanc-like with oranges and lemons flooding the palate.

(2012) Deliciously dark, serious Cabernet that is svelte and creamy, a touch dry but dense and well made.

(2012) Good Sauvignon character, with elderflower, a touch of lychee and good fruit if a touch dilute in the finish.

(2012) Muscular, closed, deep and dramatic, this has terrific sweet fruit combined with excellent structure and length.

(2012) Nice apple nose with a touch of something herbal. Appealing, but relatively simple lemon juicy character, but nicely focused.

(2012) One of three Muscat of Alexandria wines from this brilliant domaine, this is just flooded with a fabulous vanilla, honey and glycerine richness, so much opulence but floral note sings through with full sweetness on the palate but electrifying acidity an impeccable balance.