Mega Spileo Cuvée III Red 2023 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely blend of mainly Mavrodaphne and Cabernet Sauvignon from Greece that arrived at the LCBO just over a week ago in the March 21st LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the lovely 2023 Mega Spileo Assyrtiko I enjoyed last year, this wine is produced by Mega Spileo Estate, a historically significant monastery and winery whose roots date back to 362 A.D. The monastery was established by brothers who were also monks near the town of Kalavryta, in the Achaea region of northern Peloponnese, and holds a special place in Greek orthodox tradition and history.

In the mid-15th century, vine cultivation was added to the lands surrounding the winery. The grapes harvested from these vines were used by the monks to produce wine for both the Holy Communion and as a nutritious dietary supplement. During this period, a massive barrel called "Angelis" was acquired and used to store 12 tonnes of wine - this barrel still survives today.

The latest chapter in Mega Spileo's long and storied history opened in 1999 when brothers Giannis and Theodoros Anastasiou received a long-term lease on the Estate from the Monastery. The brothers' vision was to revitalize the historical vineyard using a team of experienced oenologists and wine producers in order to create a completely new and unique estate. Situated only a few minutes away from the historical monastery, Mega Spileo Estate is located within the UNESCO Chelmos-Vouraikos Global Geopark, which covers an area of 647 km² and is surrounded by tall mountains, plateaus, sheer gorges, ancient trees, wild herbs, flowers, and cool breezes, all of which come together to create a unique microclimate that is ideal for winegrowing. By replanting vineyards and implementing best practices in both the vineyard and winery, including protecting the environment and using sustainable agricultural techniques, Mega Spileo is now a thriving estate winery and a reference point for premium Greek wines.

This wine is one of two wines from Mega Spileo's "Cuvée III" range, which is named as such because each wine in the range is crafted using three varietals that blend indigenous Greek varieties with international varieties. The grapes for Cuvée III wines are also grown at altitude and express a modern Greek identity.

The Mega Spileo Cuvée III Red is a blend of 40% Mavrodaphne, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Agiorgitiko that was grown in mountain vineyards surrounding the Mega Spileo vineyard, between 700 and 800 metres above sea level, within the PGI Achaia regional appellation of the Peloponnese. Each varietal was vinified separately, with the grape must and marc (pomace) remaining in contact until fermentation is complete. The varieties are then blended and matured for 8 months in new American oak barrels.

In 2023, heavy rainfall during spring caused severe diseases such as downy mildew, which was followed by elevated temperatures and drought during the summer months. While these conditions reduced yields, grape quality is high. Let's see how this 2023 red blend from Greece is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MEGA SPILEO CUVÉE III RED 2023 - PGI Achaia, Greece (#25708) (D) - $21.95
This blend of 40% Mavrodaphne, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Agiorgitiko has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose that delivers lush and ripe dark berry, black cherry, blackberry aromas alongside sweet oak, vanilla and cocoa notes. On medium-bodied palate it ripe and sweet fruited with delicious cassis, black cherry, blackberry, vanillin oak, and cocoa flavours. Subtle spice on the mid-palate. Acids are fresh and juicy, while the tannins offer some chalkiness and textural grip. Cassis and ripe dark berry notes taper to savoury, cocoa, vanilla, oak, and smoke on the long lasting finish. Shows much better balance than the previous vintage and is a recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

Small quantities of many Mego Spileo wines are available the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.