The variety Μαύρο Μεσενικόλα is exclusively cultivated in the Karditsa region, in semi-mountainous vineyards at the foothills of the Agrafa mountains. It is a red variety, lively and productive, with late maturation. It owes its name to Monsieur Nicolas, a Frank who settled in the area in the 15th century and brought with him a passion for wine and viticulture from his homeland.
Wines made from the Μαύρο Μεσενικόλα variety are produced using classic red winemaking techniques, and sometimes age in barrels. The color is ruby, with aromas of forest fruits and spicy spices on the nose. In the case of aging in oak barrels, notes of vanilla and sweet spices complement the characteristics. On the palate, it is balanced, with velvety tannins and a pronounced finish.
The characteristics of this variety lend themselves to the production of either fresh, aromatic wines for immediate consumption, or more concentrated wines that benefit from aging, using the appropriate winemaking methods.
It is not common to find single-varietal wines made from Μαύρο Μεσενικόλα; they usually make up 70% of a blend, with the remaining 30% consisting of international varieties such as Syrah and Carignan, resulting in wines with the Protected Designation of Origin Μεσενικόλα.