What is organic vinification? How are organic wines different from the others? Do they keep, and do they taste better? Organic wine production is flourishing all over the world. To be awarded a European organic label by an approved certification body, wine must be produced using organic viticulture (cultivation of vines and grapes) and organic vinification (transformation of grape must into alcohol).
An organic bottle of wine produced in Europe will have the Euroleaf logo on its label; organic viticulture prohibits the use of synthetic products such as pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides and industrial chemical fertilizers in the vineyards. Organic wine is better for the planet and your health but that doesn’t necessarily make it a grand cru or great vintage! Grape varieties, terroirs and minerality, the quality of the grapes harvested, weather conditions, vinification method, blending, maturation are the main factors affecting the quality of wine; it depends on many factors, far beyond organic standards.
Some organic wines will keep and improve over the years, while others turn sooner than expected. But this issue applies to non-organic wines.
Tsangarides Winery
Angelos Tsangarides was among a generation of winemakers that used to be called the ‘young guns’. With over 18 years of experience, he is now considered to be among the distinguished personalities of Cypriot winemaking. The wines that, thanks to him, have fanatical followers over the island ‘speak’ to connoisseurs in the most eloquent way. Mataro Tsangarides or the Single vineyard Xynisteri are emblematic brands of excellent quality. No one argues about the new Angels rosé either. As for the entry line Xynisteri, this is a wine that proves that if a variety ‘finds its master’ it can do miracles. Similarly with the indigenous Vasilissa Maratheftiko or the cosmopolitan Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
The winery is located in the village of Lemona and is the brainchild of Angelos. He revived the family vineyards and the Tsangarides winery now has just over 20 hectares of organic vineyards, and produces seven labels that are certified organic. Four of them were enjoyed by the Cyprus Wine Society in Paphos at O Firis Tavern in Konia where they were expertly matched with a Cypriot meze with a twist, and two at the winery.
2023 Tsangarides Winery Single Vineyard Xynisteri, PGI Pafos, ABV 12%
During the winemaking process, it is Angelos’ aim to emphasise the Xynisteri vineyard and amplify the varietally expressive fruit and botanic character. Heady aromas of green bell pepper, fresh cut rocket, summer beans, stone fruit and lime, pineapple and melon lead to a dry, crunchy palate that nicely balances texture with mouthwatering acidity and mineral notes. The limey, refreshing finish makes another sip an easy endeavour. Enjoy with green salad with herbs and warm chevre or grilled asparagus with olive oil. €8
2023 Tsangarides Winery Chardonnay Organic, PGI Pafos ABV 13.5%
From a single organic vineyard, this is a fresh, unoaked Chardonnay. Bright straw yellow. White flower blossoms and hints of chamomile dominate the nose with notes of golden apples, banana, pineapple and lemon peel and tangy salinity. This food-friendly medium-bodied wine is fresh, light and creamy on the palate and fully expresses Chardonnay’s character with mixed orchard fruit, hints of lemon and herbs and subtle minerality to the finish. Think fish terrine, shellfish, sushi, Caesar salad or pasta with pesto sauce. €9
2023 Tsangarides Winery Angels Rosé Organic, PGI Pafos, ABV14%
A rosé from the collaboration between Angela Muir MW and Angelos Tsangarides, a classic blend of red and white varieties. Approximately 80% Maratheftiko and 20% Xynisteri. Dry, warm climate rosé profile, the winemakers’ goal is to find the delicate balance between the two varieties, balance between floral and herbal, wild red fruit (not overly ripe), stone fruit and acid. Enticing aromatics of peach, white cherry and wild raspberry that are balanced by summer flowers and Cyprus Montagne herbs. For most vegetarian dishes, especially stuffed vegetables or dolmades, king prawns Saganaki. €10
2022 Tsangarides Winery Maratheftiko Organic, PGI Pafos, ABV 13.5%
This Maratheftiko has soft and silky tannins and a plush, full mouthfeel setting it up for immediate enjoyment, although it’s built to age and develop further complexity. Aromas of dried herbs, cedar, clove and lavender join flavours of dark red fruit led by figs, black cherry, currants, boysenberry, huckleberry, raspberry and evident oak spice joined with more traditional rustic aromas of the region such as wild sage and mocha chocolate. Age for four to six years more and enjoy with burger with Gouda or aged Cheddar topping, even Blue Cheese, roast lamb or Souvla, as well as eggplant Parmesan. €10
2023 Tsangarides Winery Vasilissa Organic, ABV 13%
From the new indigenous variety, this is a wine that sports an intense yellow greenish colour with a delicate and unique nose, full of white flowers such as roses and citrus blossom. Also, it reveals notes of mature white fruits, red apple and citrus zest. Tomato Bruschetta is my favourite along with Chicken Chimichurri or pasta with squid. €10
2022 Tsangarides Winery Mataro Organic, ABV14%
The wine that made Angelos popular is now produced by organic practices in the vineyard. Pure ruby colour, aromas of roses, black olives, plums blueberry, blackberry, rosemary and thyme, sweet spice and oak notes, lead to full-bodied pallet that is round, balanced, mouth-filling and well-structured with soft tannins and lingering flavours of flowers, herbs and dark fruits. There is a freshness and balance here that is irresistible. Pair with grilled meats and a backyard paella as well as cassoulet and stews like beef Stifado. €12
Tsangarides Winery, Lemona 26 722777, www.tsangarideswinery.com
