KTIMA BIBLIA CHORA | Ovilos | 2020
cabernet sauvignon

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The Bibila Chora (the “C” is silent) winery was built in 1998 in the hills of Mount Pangeon, in northen Greece near Kavala, Macedonia. It is a joint venture established by the visionary duo Evangelos Gerovassiliou (the owner of the famous Ktima Gerovassiliou winery) and Vassilis Tsaktsarlis. Their philosophy is rooted in a profound respect for the land, combined with scientific research and traditional practices. The winery quickly rose to prominence by showcasing the potential of both indigenous and international grape varieties.Today we are going to review a true classic – a single-varietal and single-vineyard cabernet sauvignon wine from the Pangeon sub-region of Macedonia in northern Greece – Ovilos 2020 by Ktima Biblia Chora. Cabernet Sauvignon is grown all over the world in a wide range of climates, producing wines that are high in tannins and natural acidity, wines that can mature and develop for many years in the bottle. Cabernet Sauvignon is also a late ripening grape variety, which means that it is best suited for warmer regions, where it is capable to produce wines that can reach into realms of perfection, where they are rarely followed.

The grapes for this wine were sourced from the slopes of the mountainous Pangeon Hills, which is one of Greece’s most famed areas for red wines, known for its diverse climate and rich soils. In order to soften the harsh tannins and add a layer of extra complexity, the wine has been aged for 16 months in french oak barriques, followed by another 24 months of bottle ageing before it was deemed ready for the market release.

The privately owned vineyards of Ktima Biblia Chora encompasses an area of about 65 ha and are located at an altitude of 380 meters above sea level at the foothills on the slopes of Mount Pangeon, drawing the eye to the Aegean Sea in the distance. This rocky geography provides excellent drainage while also ensuring abundant sun exposure – two critical elements for producing high-quality grapes, especially suited for thick skinned grape varieties. The mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers, is influenced by sea breezes and cool air that descends from the Mount Pangeon at nighttime. High diurnal temperature differences between day and night allow the grapes to mature slowly and develop complex aromatic compounds. This results in wines with a firm backbone, crisp acidity, robust tannic structure, allowing them to age gracefully for at least a decade. These factors contribute to a distinctive profile of the cabernet sauvignon grape variety that makes it different from other regions.

color: very deep & opaque ruby color
clarity: hazy garnet shades at the rim

In the glass, this showcases a deep and opaque ruby color, with garnet hues at the rim – a testament to its richness and concentration.

intensity: pronounced & expressive
fruit character: ripe & overripe

The aromatic profile is notably complex, as it opens with classic notes of blackcurrants and dark cherries, accompanied by enticing hints of liquorice, cedar, and an array of spices. In the background, a nuanced earthy layer complements the aromatic profile with notes of pencil lead, graphite and asphalt. This interplay of scents invites you to explore the layers even further.

sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: high | balance: good
finish: long | aftertaste: bitter-seedy

On the palate, the wine reveals an exuberant and intense flavor experience reminiscent of overripe wild cherries, casis and prune. Its full-bodied mouthfeel is complemented by crisp acidity, grippy tannins, and a touch of alcoholic warmth, creating a harmonious balance of flavours and textures. The finish is notably long and satisfying, leaving a pleasant bitter-seedy aftertaste that lingers for quite a while.

maturity: developing | drink now or age for another 3 to 5 years
verdict: great | a must try wine | a wine that has all the traits to become legendary

Overall, this is a wine that is still developing thus one that requires time to roundup and gain even more aromatic complexity. The wine might be ready to be enjoyed today, however, it also holds considerable aging potential, predicted to develop further over the next 3 to 5 years, making it an exciting addition to any wine lover’s collection.

KTIMA BIBLIA CHORA | Ovilos | 2020
variety: cabernet sauvignon
country: Greece
region: Macedonia | Pangeon
rating: 94.4

Consider pairing this wine with rich dishes such as grilled lamb, hearty beef stew, or aged hard cheeses. The bold flavors in the wine will effectively enhance the strong flavours of the dish, creating an exiting interplay of flavours and textures for an amazing wine tasting experience.

The legacy of Ktima Biblia Chora is rooted in a commitment to quality and innovation. Since its inception, the winery has emphasized sustainability, utilizing state-of-the-art winemaking techniques to ensure that each bottle reflects the essence of the Pangeon terroir. The estate’s prized vineyards are organically farmed, emphasizing a commitment to sustainable practices and showcasing the health of their unique ecosystem.

© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation. Cheers!