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Mavrodaphne of Patras is a legendary Greek fortified red wine originating from the Peloponnese peninsula. The dark Mavrodaphne grapes produce a rich, viscous, and naturally sweet dessert wine. Smelling of dried plums, dark chocolate, raisins, and sweet spices, this drink is an indispensable choice for lovers of rich desserts and mature wines.
Read moreThis is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), ensuring the highest production standards. When choosing, pay attention to the duration of the wine's aging in oak barrels.
Classic Mavrodaphne of Patras is produced similarly to Port wine—grape fermentation is stopped by adding spirit to preserve natural sugar. Afterwards, the wine is mandatorily aged in oak barrels for at least one year. However, the best and most valued examples are aged much longer (often using a "Solera"-style blending system)—3, 5, or even more than 10 years. The longer the wine is aged, the more complex it becomes, acquiring deep notes of resin, coffee, and nuts.
Due to its viscosity, alcohol, and natural sweetness, Mavrodaphne is a perfect partner for heavy, dark desserts. It pairs fantastically with dark chocolate, chocolate cakes, traditional Greek baklava, and dried fruits and nuts. For fans of savory food, it will provide a perfect contrast to strong blue mold cheeses (e.g., Roquefort or Gorgonzola).
In Greek, "Mavro" means black, and "Daphne" means laurel. Legend has it that the grape was named by the winemaker Gustav Clauss (who created this wine style in the 19th century) in honor of his dark-eyed Greek lover, Daphne, who died young.
Not necessarily. Because it is a fortified (high alcohol volume) and very sweet wine, it is much more resistant to oxidation than regular table wines. An opened bottle kept in a cool, dark place (or refrigerator) will not lose its qualities and can be successfully consumed for several weeks or even a month after opening.
