Mandilaria
The Aegean Color Monster
Mandilaria is grown in Rhodes, Cyclades and Crete.
4regions it is known for
2other names
- Tastes of
- dark fruit, tannins, herbs and spice
- Goes with
- grilled meats, aged cheeses and rich stews
- Also called
- Amorgiano, Kontoura
The story
Mandilaria is famous for one thing: color. This grape produces almost black wine, used for centuries to add depth to blends.
Insider story
Mandilaria grows across the Aegean islands. Each island has its own clone.
Modern producers experiment with 100% Mandilaria—polarizing results.
Technical deep dive
Deeply colored reds with massive tannins (3,000-4,000 mg/L) and high acidity.
Flavor profile: black cherry, plum, licorice, herbs, earth.
Industry secrets
Mandilaria is called 'Amorgiano' on some islands.
The grape's blending power is its main commercial value.
For collectors
Investment grade C-
- Auction records
- No auction market
- Blue-chip producers
-
- Gaia
- Moraitis (Paros)
- Value picks
- Mandilaria blends ($12-25)
- Price trend
- Stable.
- Collector’s tip
- Buy blends rather than 100%.