Wine is deeply embedded in the life of Thanasis Ignatiou, the driving force behind Kalamos Winery in Paphos. Growing up in the picturesque village of Amargeti, Thanasis has been immersed in the world of wine since his teenage years, a journey he describes as both fascinating and rewarding.
A Family Affair
Kalamos Winery is more than just a business; it’s a family legacy. Founded by Thanasis’ father, Nicos Ignatiou, the winery began as a small venture with his two sons, Thanasis and Michalis. Nestled just 20 minutes from Paphos town, the winery evolved from cultivating vines to producing a wide range of wines, including white, red, rosés, and sweet varieties. Today, Kalamos Winery boasts an impressive output of 120,000 bottles annually, which reflects the dedication and passion of the Ignatiou family.
Crafting Balanced Wines
Thanasis believes that wine should complement a meal rather than overpower it. He values balance and enjoyment in his wines, striving for a reflection of the terroir and grape variety. His approach has led to an expanding portfolio that includes dry and medium-dry whites and rosés, full-bodied reds, and the sweet Commandaria, alongside Zivania, both plain and oak-aged.
New Horizons at Kalamos
Exciting changes are on the horizon for Kalamos Winery. Thanasis’ nephew, Panayiotis Ignatiou, has recently joined the family business after graduating from Athens University’s School of Oenology. His path to winemaking seems almost preordained, and he is currently honing his skills under the mentorship of Yiannis Paraskevopoulos, a renowned Greek oenologist based in Santorini. Thanasis is eager for Panayiotis to gain experience across diverse winemaking practices, including a stint in the southern hemisphere during the dormant months in Amargeti. This exposure is expected to cultivate Panayiotis into a versatile and innovative winemaker.
Harvesting Quality
The harvest season is in full swing, and Thanasis is focused on ensuring the highest quality of grapes. “We want good ingredients in the cellar,” he asserts. Recent years of drought have sharpened the winery’s skills in vineyard management, leading to more precise decisions regarding grape selection based on pH levels, acidity, and the physical condition of the vineyard.
Emphasising Purity and Expression
In his quest for complexity and intrigue in his wines, Thanasis has learned to trust his instincts and the characteristics of his vineyard sites. This philosophy has resulted in a more hands-off approach to winemaking, allowing the true nature of the grapes to shine through. The aim is to achieve a full expression of the unique grape characters, steering away from excessive winemaking interference.
A Taste of Kalamos Wines
Recently, I had the pleasure of tasting a selection of Kalamos wines at an event hosted by their local distributor, Cavaway, in Limassol. Each wine offered a distinct profile, showcasing the commitment of the Ignatiou family to quality and craftsmanship.
- 2024 Kalamos Winery Xynisteri, PGI Pafos (ABV 12%): A light, bright yellow wine with a lively bouquet of citrus and orchard fruits, this Xynisteri pairs beautifully with chicken wrapped in bacon or cold salads. Price: €8.50.
- 2021 Kalamos Winery, Alios, PGI Pafos (ABV 12%): This classically styled Xynisteri, aged in acacia and oak, offers ripe stone fruit flavours and pairs perfectly with seafood risotto or lamb. Price: €10.
- 2024 Kalamos Winery Rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon, PGI Pafos (ABV 14%): With its inviting colour and fresh acidity, this rosé is ideal for al fresco dining, complementing light dishes. Price: €8.50.
- 2024 Kalamos Winery, Demetra Medium Sweet, Cabernet Sauvignon, PGI Pafos (ABV 12.5%): This medium-sweet rosé is a delightful accompaniment to Asian appetizers and summer salads. Price: €8.50.
- 2023 Kalamos Winery Mataro, PGI Pafos (ABV 13%): A full-bodied red with rich fruit flavours, ideal for pairing with hearty dishes like barbecue and lamb. Price: €8.50.
- 2016 Kalamos Winery Merlot (ABV 12.5%): This aged Merlot captivates with its dark garnet colour and flavour profile, perfect for pairing with marinated steak or hard cheeses. Price: €12.50.
- 2019 Kalamos Winery Maratheftiko 12 months Oak (ABV 13%): A unique blend featuring the Opthalmo grape variety, this elegant wine pairs wonderfully with red meats and strong cheeses. Price: €15.
For more information about Kalamos Winery and its offerings, you can contact them at 26 723224 or via email at [email protected]. The wines are distributed by Cavaway.
