With a wine history dating back about 6500 years I think it is time that we introduce more people to the world of Greek wines. Home to more than 300 different grape varietals, ancient Greeks may have been responsible for introducing these grapes throughout the world. Many of which show ties to the famed wine making grapes of today. From the cooler mountainous regions of the north to the sunny coasts there is a wide variety of wine styles produced. Come by this week for an introduction to these wines!
Grab a flight for $5!
Featured Wines:
Domaine Skouras “Zoe” White Blend 2018
Argos, Greece; $12.99
So we are starting the flight in the Peloponnese. This is a blend of Roditis from the mountainous region of Nemea in the east and Moschofilero from Mantinia more inland. Though these grapes are completely unique indigenous varietals to Greece they can be compared easily to more common varietals. Roditis like Pinot Grigio is actually a pink skinned grape and showcases similar citrus, pear and green apple flavors. Moschofilero has often been compared to Muscat or Gewurztraminer. Often spicy with intense floral aromatics. This blend is excellent… Crisp and light, but very flavorful. Notes of fresh jasmine and citrus with a very clean finish. - $1.00 Sample
Kir-Yianni “Paranga” Red Blend 2017
Naoussa, Greece; $14.99
We are now trekking north to Macedonia where the Kir-Yianni (Sir John) winery can be found in the slopes of the Vermio Mountains. The iconic grape of this region is Xinomavro, which in this red is blended with some classic French varietals; Merlot and Syrah. Xinomavro is most commonly compared to Nebbiolo the iconic grape of northwestern Italy. No oak aging on this fresh style. The Merlot brings some bright red fruit, the Syrah adds some spice and richness, and the Xinomavro has lots of those unique earthy notes like herbs and clove. - $1.25 Sample
Alpha Estate Xinomavro 2016
Amyndeo, Greece; $22.99
The last two reds fall into the higher quality designation system of Greece. Greece has taken on a system similar to many other European countries using a “Protected Designation of Origin”, or PDO to regulate higher quality production. Alpha Estate won “Winery of the Year” in 2013 from Wine & Spirits Magazine and has been a regular favorite of Robert Parker. This Xinomavro is produced exclusively from their estate Hedgehog Vineyard. It underwent a long cold fermentation and then was aged a full year in French oak. The resulting wine shows off tons of complexity with lots of leather, black pepper and clove. It does have some ripe blackberry fruit that is carried by some rocking tannins. Super food friendly red. - $1.50 Sample
Domaine Skouras Saint George 2016
Nemea, Greece; $15.99
We are heading back to the Peloponnese with this jammy red to finish on. Saint George more traditionally known as Aghiorghitiko is a very rich fruit forward grape. After a year in oak this wine is showing lots of sweet vanilla. The jammy blackberry, raspberry and strawberry notes with lots of spice reminds me of Zinfandel. - $1.25 Sample