Kir Yianni Diaporos 2016

The 2016 Diaporos Block 5 (the new labels just say “single vineyard” not “Block 5”) is mostly Xinomavro, with 13% Syrah blended in. It was aged for 18 months in new French oak and comes in at 13.9% alcohol. Of all the Xinomavro-based wines this issue, this would be my favorite. In its youth, it seems lusher, more expressive and less closed. The wide-open Syrah may have something to do with that, but this Block 5 is pretty special as well. This will have a more approachable feel than a lot of young Xinomavros (including Kir-Yianni’s), but don’t be confused—there’s power underneath and plenty of aging ability. These are all just relative comments. There’s enough depth this year, not the most ever, perhaps, but enough. Then, it might win extra points for finesse and balance. It is this wine’s expressive fruit, beautiful finesse and long finish that are its most impressive features. RP