Tradition and innovation characterise and define the Zýmē winery, situated in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica region in a 15th-century sandstone quarry, now renovated, which symbolises the strong bond between the winery and the local area. The winery, whose name literally means ‘yeast’, operates under organic farming practices, with a particular focus on respecting nature and crafting new wines that showcase the Valpolicella region. A mosaic of sensations, Zýmē’s Veneto Kairos reflects the connection with the Harlequin project, Harlequin’s costume made of multicoloured patches, just as the wine is made from 15 different grapes, each with its own organoleptic characteristics. In Greek, Kairos means ‘convenient, opportune, the right moment’. The addition of the sundial and clock on the label express the concept of the exact moment. The grapes used to produce Kairos all come from estate-owned vineyards in the area between Vicenza and Verona and consist of at least 15 grape varieties, 4 white and 11 red: Garganega, Trebbiano Toscano, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Shiraz, Teroldego, Croatina, Oseleta, Sangiovese, Marzemino. The bunches are harvested by hand, each variety at the correct ripeness for that specific grape, and are then left to rest on trays for as long as necessary until the harvest is complete. Vinified in steel and concrete tanks, the period of cryomaceration and fermentation with indigenous yeasts takes around 20–25 days, with gentle manual stirring of the must and pomace. This is followed by racking and ageing in French oak barriques for at least two years without any racking. Further ageing in the bottle for at least six months. 100 ml: E=373 kJ/89 kcal
In the glass, Kairos is a brilliant ruby red with garnet highlights, displaying good intensity with a blend of fruity, floral and mineral notes. On the palate, it reveals enveloping and complex sensations, with spicy notes: tobacco, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.
The finish is persistent and sweet, making it the perfect accompaniment to substantial white and red meat dishes. Excellent with flavourful cheeses and game.
To fully appreciate its style, this wine should be served at a temperature of 16–18°C.