Moinoterra ‘Prokopis’ Assyrtiko, Archanes, Crete, Greece 2023

Moinoterra is a boutique winery in Archanes, Crete, focused on native Greek varieties and minimal-intervention winemaking. They manage single-vineyard sites with respect for local tradition, low yields, and maximum expression of terroir.

• WINEMAKER: Nikos Stathoglou
  
• FARMING: Sustainable, dry-farmed native varieties
  
• VARIETY: 100% Assyrtiko
  
• TERROIR: Sourced from the “Prokopis” single vineyard north of Mount Juktas—under the PDO Archanes designation—at approximately 650 m elevation. The site features rocky, volcanic-influenced soils and a Mediterranean climate with considerable diurnal temperature shifts, ideal for retaining vibrant acidity.  
  
• VINIFICATION: Whole-cluster pressing with fermentation in stainless steel at 16–18 °C. A portion of juice saw fermentation in 350 L oak barrels to enhance textural complexity. Lees contact during eight months of ageing adds mid-palate weight.
  
• AGING: Eight months on fine lees; part in stainless steel, part in neutral oak (350 L barrels)
  
• TASTING NOTES: Expressive nose of lemon, citrus blossom, and sea spray, reinforced by the vibrant, mineral-driven palate. The wine is crystalline, electric, and fresh, with classic Assyrtiko acidity and a saline mineral finish.
  
• FOOD PAIRINGS: Exceptional with grilled fish, octopus, shellfish, Greek-style calamari, or tangy goat cheeses.