Gofas 2019 Vasilio Grande Reserve 750ml

Can you wait 7-10 years on a great red wine? If yes, then keep on reading.

The brand new red wine Vasilio 2019 by Domaine Gofas came to claim its crown shifting the balance among premium Agiorgitiko wines of the Nemea region.

In a single vineyard just outside the absolute «Grand Cru» village of Nemea, Koutsi, at an altitude of 480m and prohibitive for any crop, almost dangerous slope, Agiorgitiko was planted by Gofas family grandfather back in 1972.

Totally rainfed, vines survived and grew to overcome the physical difficulties of steep slopes with rocky soils. As for the condensation? Each of the nearly half-century-old plants gave only one bottle of wine after a very careful selection of 4-5 bunches of overripe fruit from each vine.

The precious juice remained for 30 months in French oak barrels with moderate burning and then was bottled without filtering in just 900 bottles where it rested for another year. Most of the bottles are already stored with care in a "sophisticated" wine lover’s cellar while some will remain in the estate’s cellar for further aging. Still young, it is looking for owners who can wait and promises them that it will evolve beautifully for at least ten years.

Moderate aromatic intensity initially, with developing aromas of mature plum, black cherry, chocolate, coffee, and dried figs in a spicy background of black pepper and cardamom. While it breathes it gains intensity and acquires new aspects of complexity. Earthly fresh soil notes make their presence felt with cigar smoke and hints of ink completing the rich set.

In the mouth, medium-full body, robust, it will soften over time. The tannins are intense, well worked, without being aggressive while noticeable acidity contributes to the intense character. Plum, dried fig, and tobacco dominate in the mouth and remain in the long-lasting spicy aftertaste.

Pair it with spicy steaks, grilled liver, or pork in the oven.

-- botilia.gr