X-Bourgo Vineyard: An Exclusive Tinos Experience for Crossroads Inn Guests

“And right there, right by the roots of the grapevine, desire springs new shoots and life makes its cycles, cycles of the moon and cycles of the sun.”

N. Zervonikolakis

Just a short walk above Tripotamos traditional village, where Crossroads Inn is located, ascending the stepped alleyways reveals a breathtaking panorama: to the south, the island cluster of Delos; to the north, the imposing granite Rock of Exombourgo, crowned by its ancient castle ruins. Nestled below Exombourgo, near the sanctuary of Demeter, the deity of cultivation and luxuriant growth, lies our family vineyard, home to X-Bourgo wine – a hidden gem offering an exclusive experience for Crossroads Inn guests.

In 2011, Theodoros Kosmopoulos, husband of Crossroads Inn's proprietor and architect Ourania Diamantopoulou, fulfilled his long-held dream by revitalizing the neglected vineyards of Ano and Kato Ambeli [Upper and Lower Vineyard]. This 8-stremma (approx. 2-acre) vineyard, on the slopes of Tripotamos traditional village, now nurtures 6.000 thriving grapevines, lovingly tended by Theodoros.

Eleven hand-built, fieldstone terraced tiers (known locally as "pezoules"), a traditional architectural element of the region, crisscross the vineyard. Its southern orientation and topography ensure abundant sunshine throughout the day, promoting healthy vine growth. We cultivate indigenous Greek grape varieties, traditionally grown in the Cyclades: Mavrotragano and Mavrothiriko (red) and Assyrtiko (white).

The vineyard's annual cycle begins in February with winter pruning and training, as well as new planting, coinciding with the feast day of Aghios Tryfon (February 1^st), the patron Saint of winegrowers. Tripotamos village celebrates this occasion with open houses, local wine, and traditional appetizers. In March, the vineyard is ploughed, and the vines are tended to, marking the start of the growing season. Daily monitoring follows to protect the vines and ensure healthy development. Veraison begins in July, and the sugar and acid levels of the grapes are carefully checked to determine the harvest time, typically in late August. In September, the cycle of life begins anew as we prepare for the next harvest season.

As a Crossroads Inn guest, you're invited to join us for a unique, authentic experience: stroll through the verdant vines, follow the steps of the winegrower, learn about the actual winegrowing tasks throughout the year, explore the vineyard, and even sample the grapes, bursting with juices, at harvest time. As dusk falls, the vineyard transforms into a magical setting. Relax as the vines rustle in the breeze, savor our rare X-Bourgo wine, and enjoy homemade treats while gazing out at the Aegean Sea and the island of Delos. This exclusive, intimate experience is a highlight of a stay at Crossroads Inn, offering a true taste of authentic Tinos island life!