Boutari Naoussa is a 100% Xinomavro red wine from PDO Naoussa, Greece, bottled at 12.5–13% ABV in a standard 750ml format. A former Wine Spectator Top 100 selection (2013 vintage), this expression consistently earns scores in the 88–90 range from major critics, establishing it as one of the benchmark introductions to the Xinomavro grape and the Naoussa appellation. Quick Facts: ABV: 12.5–13% | Origin: PDO Naoussa, Macedonia, Greece | Varietal: 100% Xinomavro | Producer: Boutari Winery (est. 1879) Production & Heritage Boutari Winery was founded in 1879 in Naoussa and remains one of Greece's most recognized wine houses. For this PDO Naoussa bottling, the fruit undergoes a 24-hour cold maceration followed by controlled alcoholic fermentation at 20–27°C using selected yeast strains. Extraction is deliberately gentle—few pump-overs are performed over a 7-to-10-day period before fermentation completes, and no pressings are included in the final blend, preserving the delicate aromatics and avoiding harsh tannin. After malolactic fermentation, the wine ages for 12 months in French oak barrels on their fifth and sixth use, imparting subtle structure without overwhelming Xinomavro's naturally complex character. Tasting Notes Aroma: The nose opens with fresh black cherry and sour cherry, followed by earthy, peppery undertones. With air, deeper layers of sun-dried tomato, black olive, and a faint botanical note emerge. Taste: The entry is bright with tart cherry and plum, bolstered by firm but silky tannins. The mid-palate introduces dried herb, sage, and a gentle oak spice, while ripe red berry and a touch of leather add dimension. A current of crisp acidity runs throughout, keeping the wine focused and lifted. Finish: Medium-long, with black pepper, smoke, and lingering cherry. The tannins resolve smoothly, leaving a dry, slightly savory impression that invites another sip. How to Drink Boutari Naoussa Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F). Younger vintages benefit from 30 to 60 minutes in a decanter to soften the tannins and open the aromatics. This is a wine built for the dinner table—its firm structure and bright acidity make it a natural partner for grilled lamb, tomato-based Mediterranean dishes, and aged hard cheeses. For a casual warm-weather serve, Boutari Naoussa can anchor a robust red sangria, where its cherry and spice notes hold up well against citrus and stone fruit. Best For Introducing a wine-curious friend to Greek Xinomavro Pairing with a grilled lamb or braised meat dinner Gifting a Nebbiolo or Barolo enthusiast looking to explore Mediterranean parallels Building a cellar collection with age-worthy Greek reds Frequently Asked Questions What does Boutari Naoussa taste like? It delivers tart cherry, plum, and dried herb flavors framed by firm tannins, bright acidity, and subtle oak spice. Earthy, peppery undertones and a hint of black olive add savory complexity. How does Boutari Naoussa compare to Barolo? Xinomavro from Naoussa is frequently compared to Nebbiolo from Barolo because both grapes share high acidity, firm tannin structure, and notable age-worthiness. Boutari Naoussa tends to be more immediately accessible and lighter-bodied than most entry-level Barolos, with a distinctly Mediterranean herbal and olive-inflected character. Is Boutari Naoussa good for sipping on its own? Yes—its balanced acidity, layered aromatics, and structured tannins make it engaging to drink neat, particularly after a brief decant to let the bouquet develop fully. Where is Boutari Naoussa made? It is produced by Boutari Winery, established in 1879, within the PDO Naoussa zone in the Macedonia region of northern Greece. Naoussa sits on the southeastern slopes of Mount Vermion, where Xinomavro has been cultivated for centuries. What foods pair well with Boutari Naoussa? Grilled or slow-roasted lamb pairs exceptionally well, as the wine's tannins and acidity cut through the richness. Moussaka and other tomato-based Mediterranean dishes echo the wine's sun-dried tomato notes. Aged graviera or kefalotyri cheese complements its earthy depth. Cured meats and charcuterie highlight the peppery, savory side. Mushroom risotto or lentil stews match its herbal, earthy undertones. What sizes does Boutari Naoussa come in? The standard release is a 750ml bottle. Select vintages may appear in 375ml half-bottles or 1.5L magnums, though the 750ml format is the most widely available. Is Boutari Naoussa worth the price? It positions as a value-tier to mid-range PDO Naoussa red, making it one of the most affordable introductions to serious Xinomavro. Given consistent critic scores around 88–90 points and its Wine Spectator Top 100 recognition, it punches well above its weight relative to comparably structured Old World reds. Why Boutari Naoussa? Few wines at this price point offer the tannic structure, acidity, and aging potential of a well-made Xinomavro, and Boutari's approach—gentle extraction with no pressings, restrained oak from older French barrels—lets the grape speak rather than the winemaking. The Wine Spectator Top 100 nod and steady critical scores confirm that this is not a novelty pick but a reliable benchmark for the Naoussa appellation. For drinkers who appreciate Nebbiolo's architecture but want to explore beyond Piedmont, Boutari Naoussa provides a compelling, distinctly Greek counterpoint rooted in over 140 years of winemaking heritage.
