Kir-Yianni -- Paranga Red

Yiannis Boutaris, AKA Kir-Yianni / “Sir John” is the 5th generation of his family to be involved in the Greek wine industry, having started out at his family’s company Boutari Wine Group founded in 1879. Buying an initial 50 hectare plot of land in 1968, he worked tirelessly over the next 30 years planting native indigenous grape varietals across his land, and eventually securing the purchase of what would become his winery, lovingly nicknamed “Paranga” (“The Shack.”) Today, his son Stellios manages the winery and their estate vineyards in Naoussa & Amyndeon. The winery is focused on producing premium wines with authentic character which also appeal to the modern wine consumer.

Grape: Merlot 50%, Xinomavro 25%, Syrah 25%

Region: Amyndeon, Macedonia, Greece

Farming: Integrated Farming (sustainability & minimal environmental impact), hand harvested, drip irrigation, 10-30 year old vines, high elevation (1,200-1,400 ft), sandy soil

Winery: 2-5 day maceration, fermentation and aging (8 months)  in stainless, weekly bâtonnage