Regions / FIELD NOTES

Naoussa / Xinomavro

Naoussa: Xinomavro—Extraction and Maturation

After matching grape varieties, examine differences in vineyard and winemaking.

RELATIONSHIPS

Naoussa: Xinomavro—Extraction and Maturation: Comparison perspectives

Naoussa / Xinomavro

Read geography, grape resources, and production processes separately.

  • Geography

    Northern Vermio foothills

  • Grapes

    Xinomavro

  • Winemaking

    Extraction, barrel, bottle aging

This is a schematic diagram summarizing the main text. It does not represent production areas or quality rankings. Sources and reference materials

FIELD NOTE 01

Located in the northern foothills.

Naoussa’s vineyards are on the slopes of Mount Vermio, northern Macedonia. The climate combines Mediterranean and continental influences, so winter and summer differ from typical island images. There is a diversity of altitude, exposure, and soils; the region as a whole is not uniform like a single vineyard.

FIELD NOTE 02

Connect PDO to grape varieties

PDO Naoussa is a red made from 100% Xinomavro. Learn this relationship first, then check the actual sweetness/dryness level and winemaking documents. The grape name 'Xinomavro' is not a synonym for the region name 'Naoussa'.

When studying Amynteo, Goumenissa, or Rapsani, don't assume the rules for Naoussa simply because Xinomavro is also used.

FIELD NOTE 03

Do not decide tannin levels on color alone.

When observing Xinomavro reds, separate color intensity, acidity, and tannin. Even a relatively light color does not mean weak tannin or acidity. Analyze not just grape ripeness but also choices about skin contact and maturation.

The official guide describes multiple styles based on differences such as extraction, barrel or bottle aging. Even within the same PDO, flavor is not fixed; in comparisons, always state the producer and vintage.

Key points of this article

Observe color and tannin separately. In addition to the variety, check ripeness, extraction, and maturation conditions.

PAUSE & REFLECT

Check your understanding.

If the color is pale, does it always mean less tannin?

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Observe color and tannin separately. In addition to the variety, check ripeness, extraction, and maturation conditions.

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Courses related to this question

Xinomavro: Red wines for aging and sparkling rosés →

Sources and reference materials

These are the reference materials for the main text. For details of production regulations, consult the current documents. For individual wine specifications, refer to materials for the relevant vintage.

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