BLE ALEPOU 2021 - KTIMA KYR-YIANNI

Certainly of a rare breed, it was seen only once, in September 2009, late at night at the end of the harvest, when Stelios Boutaris was enjoying the sweet fatigue of the moment under the oak tree in the center of the estate. She was small. She jumped out of the vines, they looked at each other briefly, and then she vanished back into them. He thought she was blue. Who knows…

Since then, you encounter her exclusively in the finest cellars of Greece and abroad, alongside prestigious labels of the international vineyard. Produced in small quantities, she disappears in the blink of an eye.

Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, and also Petit Verdot come together in this unique blend, aiming to highlight the international dimension of the Greek vineyard. Ble Alepou (meaning "Blue Fox" in Greek) 2021 from Ktima Kir-Yianni matures for 16 months in new French oak barrels (80% 225L and 20% 500L). After bottling, it stays in the bottle for another 12 months, and the little blue fox is ready to play. And when we say little, we mean it—because she has at least a decade ahead before reaching maturity.

Many compare it to top wines from Bordeaux and Burgundy. Truth be told, from the very first sip it earns a spot among the best wines you’ve ever tasted.

And if you decide to purchase three bottles, you’ll receive them in a wooden case with the story of the wine, signed by Stelios Boutaris.

Ble Alepou Ktima Kir Yianni has a deep purple color and elegant nose that evolves over time in the glass. First, come the spices. Freshly ground pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla. Ripe cherry and plum in marmalade form continue, while fresh soil, toffee, chocolate, and mushroom add an earthy tone. Ink, tobacco, and dried nuts complement the complex aromatic bouquet.

Structured on the palate, with a velvety texture. Well-polished and beautifully integrated tannins are in complete balance with vibrant acidity. The fruit is dense on the palate. Flavors of cherry, cassis, blueberry, and plum, dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with cinnamon and walnut.