Its all Greek to me
In the ancient world the wines of Greece were renowned and much sought after. Today Greek wines are often overlooked as people reach for the familiar but for those who want to explore new grape varieties and regions Greece offers a cornucopia of delicious treats. From refreshing, salty whites to delicate, light roses; rich sweet wines to structured full bodied reds, Greece has a little bit of everything on offer, so you are sure to find something to suit your palate.
Greece has a wide array of climates in which to grow their grapes. On the mainland there are sunny plains and cooling mountainous regions, whilst on the islands you have windswept volcanic vineyards, with each location being suited to different grape varieties. Whilst there are some international (read French) grape varieties grown in Greece, the most interesting wines produced here tend to be made from their indigenous grapes.
To help you dip your toes into the sea of Greek wine we are hosting a couple of Greek wine tastings in store, one in Hurstpierpoint on the 21st June and one in Lindfield on the 5th July. To learn more about these and to book tickets click here. In the meantime, here are a few fantastic offerings up to Dionysus (the Greek god of wine) that we think are well worth sampling this summer.
Assyrtiko, Lyrarakis, Crete, Greece - £15.95
From a small family winery who discovered the potential of east Crete in the 1970s. Sourced form an unirrigated single vineyard, this Assyrtiko is lovely and fresh, with crisp apple, stone fruit and hint of ginger. The textured palate has a rich mouthfeel supported by minerality and a natural acidity that leads into a long, fruity and uplifting finish.
Agiorgitiko Rose 4 - 6H, Gaia Wines, Peloponese, Greece - £17.95
An appealing and vivid rosé with an intense and aromatic profile which hovers between delicate floral notes of rose petals and fruity flavours of pomegranate and strawberry. Vibrant with lifted crisp acidity and a refreshing finish.
Xinomavro - Single Vineyard Hedgehog, Alpha Estate, Macedonia, Greece - £26.95
A wonderful example of Xinomavro with its complex bouquet of small berried red fruits, leather, pepper, clove and vanilla spice showing great typicity. Structured and beautifully balanced with rounded tannins and well-integrated oak, with a touch of quince on the finish.
Monemvasia Malvasia Vin Liastos - 37.5cl, Laconia, Greece – 39.95
This naturally sweet wine Monemvasia-Malvasia was created with passion, persistence, and care. Amber-colored with golden shades, intense aromas and complexity with elements of dry fruit, caramel, nuts, and coconut. The concentrated sweetness of its flavor and the subtle tannins and distinctive high acidity are in perfect balance on the palate. Its finish is delicious and long lasting.