Domaine Dalamara
Paliokalias PDO – Dry Red Wine Limited Edition 750ml
Domaine Dalamara Paliokalias
A distinguished and highly sought-after wine from the Naoussa region of northern Greece, crafted exclusively from the Xinomavro grape. It is sourced from the historic single vineyard of Paliokalias, a site regarded as the “Grand Cru” of Naoussa, where old vines and exceptional terroir converge to produce wines of unrivalled depth and character. This cuvée stands at the pinnacle of the estate’s portfolio, representing both tradition and uncompromising craftsmanship.
Vineyard & Heritage
The Paliokalias vineyard is revered for its unique soils and microclimate, which endow the Xinomavro grape with remarkable concentration and complexity. Generations of careful stewardship have transformed this vineyard into a benchmark for Naoussa’s potential, and in the hands of sixth-generation winemaker Kostis Dalamara, it continues to produce wines of profound elegance and longevity.
Tasting Notes
The 2020 vintage displays a luminous medium ruby hue that hints at its refinement. Its aromatic profile is layered and captivating, unfolding gradually to reveal sun-dried tomato, red cherry, blackberry, plum, and wild herbs, woven together with hints of spice, leather, and forest floor. The aromas remain vibrant and persistent, evolving beautifully over hours in the glass, a hallmark of great, age-worthy Xinomavro.
On the palate, Paliokalias is both powerful and graceful. Silky yet structured tannins frame a core of ripe red and black fruits, accented by savory notes and a mineral backbone. Its balance of vibrant acidity, depth, and finesse creates an extraordinary sense of harmony, finishing with remarkable length and persistence. This is a wine that will reward patience in the cellar for decades, growing in complexity and nuance with time.
Style: Profound, complex, collectible – Dry Red Wine
Cellaring: Drink now after decanting, or cellar confidently for 15–20 years.
Production: Extremely limited bottling, making it a prized addition to any serious collection.
Pairing: A versatile food wine, pairing beautifully with roast lamb, braised meats, mushroom risotto, stuffed peppers, or aged cheeses. Its brightness also makes it a natural match for Mediterranean dishes like roasted eggplant, tomato-based stews, or mezze platters.
Vintage: 2020
750ML
12.5%
About the Winery
Domaine Dalamara is a historic, family-owned winery situated at the entrance of Naoussa in northern Greece’s Central region. Established in 1840 by Ioannis Georgiou Dalamara, the estate has been integral to the region’s viticultural heritage for over 180 years, producing wines that reflect both tradition and innovation. Today, it is led by sixth-generation winemaker Kostis Dalamara, who carries forward the family legacy while infusing it with international expertise gained from Burgundy, Alsace, and Catalonia. His vision balances respect for heritage with a modern approach that continues to place the estate among the most respected in Naoussa.
Vineyard and Winemaking Practices
The estate’s vineyards span approximately 6 hectares on the eastern foothills of Mount Vermio, a location prized for its altitude, cool breezes, and rich soils that create ideal conditions for grape cultivation. The Dalamara family has cultivated their vines organically since 1996 and has incorporated biodynamic practices since 2008, treating the land as a living ecosystem.
The primary grape is Xinomavro, Naoussa’s noble variety, celebrated for its high acidity, firm tannins, and remarkable ability to age. From this grape, the winery crafts wines that are both powerful and elegant, often compared to the Nebbiolos of Piedmont. Kostis employs a philosophy of minimal intervention: fermentations with native yeasts, gentle extraction, and no fining or filtration. His judicious use of oak ensures that the wines remain authentic expressions of terroir, bringing out the complexity and depth of Naoussa’s soils and climate.