Troupis Winery Hoof & Lur Moschofilero 2021
Greek Summer in a bottle! Uncorking a bottle of Troupis Winery's Hoof & Lur Moschofilero 2021 is like opening a window to the sun-drenched hills of Mantinia. As you take your first sip, you're struck by a sense of vibrancy and purity – it's as if you're tasting liquid sunshine. This wine is a true testament to the potential of Greece's indigenous grape varieties, as it showcases the unique character of Moschofilero grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Mantinia. The nose is immediately captivating with its intense floral and citrus aromas, reminiscent of a Mediterranean garden in full bloom. On the palate, the wine displays a beautiful balance between crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavors, with a distinctive mineral undertone that speaks to its terroir.
At its price point, the Hoof & Lur Moschofilero offers outstanding value, providing wine enthusiasts with an opportunity to explore a lesser-known Greek variety that can stand proudly alongside more famous aromatic whites from around the world. Its versatility with food, particularly its affinity for seafood and light Mediterranean cuisine, makes it an excellent choice for warm weather enjoyment or as an aperitif.
The Hoof & Lur Moschofilero doesn't just refresh your palate – it rejuvenates your spirit, leaving you with a sense of discovery and a yearning to explore more of what Greek wines have to offer.
Our Score: 90
Summary
Flavors: Citrus, rose petals, and a hint of tropical fruit.
Pair With: Grilled fish, light salads, and soft cheeses. The crisp acidity and floral notes complement the delicate flavors of these dishes.
Drink Window: Best consumed 2023-2026. Moschofilero is typically enjoyed young to appreciate its vibrant aromatics and freshness.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Color: Light pink.
Clarity: Hazy.
Aroma:
Nose: Aromas of citrus, rose petals, and tropical fruits.
Palate:
Flavor Profile: Initial impression of citrus and tropical fruits, with midpalate notes of rose petals and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Body: Light.
Acidity: Medium.
Tannins: Soft.
Finish: Crisp and short.
Price Range: $15-20.
Value for Money: Excellent quality for the price, offering a unique and high-quality Greek wine experience at an accessible price point.
Quality Price Ratio (QPR) Score: A
Similar Wines: For those who enjoy Hoof & Lur Moschofilero, similar wines include other aromatic white varieties such as Albariño from Spain or Grüner Veltliner from Austria. Specifically, try Domaine Skouras Moscofilero from the same region.
Serving Temperature: 45-50°F (7-10°C)
Decanting: Not necessary.
Fun Fact: The name "Hoof & Lur" is a playful reference to the winery's commitment to natural winemaking practices. "Hoof" refers to the animals that help maintain the vineyard ecosystem, while "Lur" is an old English word meaning "to lurk or lie in wait," symbolizing the patient approach to winemaking.
Technical Details
Winery: Troupis Winery (troupiswinery.gr). A family-run winery located in the Mantinia region, known for focusing on indigenous Greek grape varieties, particularly Moschofilero.
Vintage: 2021. This year had favorable weather conditions, resulting in a well-balanced wine with pronounced flavors.
Varietal(s): 100% Moschofilero.
Region: Mantinia, Greece.
ABV (Alcohol By Volume): 12.5%.
Winery Location Details: The vineyards of Troupis Winery are located in the picturesque setting of Mantinia, in the heart of the Peloponnese. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of 650 meters above sea level, benefiting from a continental climate with Mediterranean influences. The soil is composed of clay and limestone, which contributes to the wine's mineral character. Mantinia is known for its cool climate and high-altitude vineyards, which are ideal for growing aromatic white grape varieties like Moschofilero.
Production: Grapes are hand-harvested in the cool early morning hours to preserve freshness. The must undergoes a short period of skin contact before gentle pressing. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled low temperatures to retain the grape's delicate aromas. The wine is then aged on its lees for a short period to add complexity before bottling.
Deep Dive
Troupis Winery is known for its dedication to the Moschofilero grape, a variety that thrives in the high-altitude vineyards of Mantinia.
The name "Hoof & Lur" is a playful reference to the winery's commitment to natural winemaking practices. "Hoof" refers to the animals that help maintain the vineyard ecosystem, while "Lur" is an old English word meaning "to lurk or lie in wait," symbolizing the patient approach to winemaking.
Moschofilero is a pink-skinned grape variety, known for producing aromatic and crisp white wines with floral and citrus notes.
The winery's sustainable practices include minimal intervention in the vineyard and cellar, aiming to reflect the true character of the region. The winery practices sustainable viticulture, using organic fertilizers and minimizing chemical interventions in the vineyard.
Mantinia is one of Greece's oldest wine regions, with a winemaking tradition that dates back to antiquity. The region's unique terroir and climate make it ideal for growing aromatic grape varieties like Moschofilero.
Tasos Troupis, the head winemaker, studied oenology in France and brings a blend of traditional Greek winemaking and modern techniques to their production.
Moschofilero is often called the "Gewürztraminer of Greece" due to its aromatic similarities.