Vasilio Grande Reserve 2014,by Estate Gofas with its heavy concentration,the presence of noble tannins represents most evocative Nemea wines.
For years, the creations of Constantin Gofas have gained their own prominent position both in Greece and in foreign markets.
Who has not taken delight in the twelve months of ripening Nemea or the exceptional white and red Romeo & Juliet while his latest creation Kydonitsa with the brandname MeraNyxta showed the rich qualities of the variety outside the birthplace of Laconia as well.
But if we would like to stand in one of the most emblematic wines of the Nemea region, this would definitely be Vasilio Grande Reserve, which I recently had the unique experience of vertical tasting of the years 2014, 2015 and 2016.
Wine’s Characteristics
Gofas Estate, Vasilio Grand Reserve 2014, PDO Nemea
Dry Red Wine, 100% Agiorgitiko
Origin & Identity
The grapes of the Vasilio Grande Reserve label come from the proprietary and non-irrigated single vineyard of the Estate at an altitude of 380m, at Koutsi of Nemea.
The low acreage yield but also the cultivation with the standards of the integrated management system guarantee the quality of the raw material.
After the end of the alcoholic fermentation, the wine ages in oak French barrels of 225lt for 36 months and then after bottling it remains unfiltered for another 12 months in the cellar.
Wine description
Ruby color dense and impenetrable.
On the nose there are subtle aromas of black cherry dipped in alcohol, ripe plum, sour cherry, chocolate, coffee, dried figs, cigar smoke with hints of sweet spices while breathing the order of aromas alternates and the intensity rises.
On the palate, the strength and depth of the black fruit lead to a body with high concentration while the noticeable acidity, the well-worked tannins and the 15 alcoholic degrees compose a tight structure that surprises with its balance and finesse while giving the credentials of a long-lasting aging.
Aftertaste long and complex that its imprint is settled and remains in the taste memory.
Harmony with Food
Give it plenty of time to breathe in a decanter before serving.
Vasilio Grande Reserve 2014 matches certainly well with sausages, skewered lamb or ” giouvetsi”(stew) but a great wine like this asks to accompany dishes of similar quality and level.
Start with ruccola salad with porcini, parmesan flakes, balsamic and dried figs.
Then roll in a truffle risotto.
For the main course, choose between a juicy liver or grilled beef cuts but one of the best matches is a braised beef in red wine sauce and polenta.
It is advisable to avoid meat dishes that are dominated by red sauce or fresh cream.
For the finale, a platter with aged yellow cheese will prolong the enjoyment.
Dinner can be beautifully closed with bitter chocolate, a quality that few red dry wines such as Vasilio Grande Reserve 2014 acquire.
About the Author
Nikos Politis works in Efpan, a company importing Spanish wines- products and distribution network of Spanish and Greek wines.
Sommelier in Acropolis Chef’s Club of Attica.
He worked for a company exporting and distributing Greek wines in China.
He was employed in the exports department of Cantina Roeno, an Italian Winery based in Brentino Belluno, in Verona.
Studied in WSPC– Wine & Spirit Professional Center.
English (UK) 
Ελληνικά