Discovering the Hidden Gem: Greek Island Wines

The allure of the Greek islands is undeniable. From ancient times to the present day, these captivating isles have captured the hearts of travelers, writers, and artists alike. But amidst the beauty of crystal-clear waters and sun-kissed cliffs, there lies a hidden gem that many people overlook – the outstanding wines of Greece.

In the epic poem “The Odyssey,” Odysseus spent a decade traveling the Greek islands on his way back home. Inspired by the enchanting beauty of these islands, even great figures like Jacquelyn Kennedy, Joni Mitchell, and Leonard Cohen found solace in their embrace. But what they might not have realized is that Greece is also home to exceptional wines.

This week, we invite you to delve into the history of winemaking in Greece and discover one of its most popular wine grapes – assyrtiko. All three white wines we recommend are made with assyrtiko grapes and range in price from $28 to $44 per bottle. Coming from Santorini, the captivating Greek island known for its iconic white buildings perched on steep cliffs, these wines embody the spirit and essence of the region.

According to “Wine Grapes” by Jancis Robinson, Julia Harding, and Jose Vouillamoz, nearly 70% of wines from Santorini are made with assyrtiko grapes. These vineyards bear witness to Greece’s winemaking heritage, as some assyrtiko grape vines on Santorini date back almost 500 years. It is this rich history and age-old tradition that infuses these dry white wines with their distinct and elegant flavors.

Ancient Greece, unsurprisingly, has been making wine for millennia. Archaeological records suggest that winemaking in Greece dates back to at least 6,000 BC. While the country of Georgia often claims the title of being one of the first places in the world to create wine, I am inclined to bet on the ancient Greeks. After all, what better accompaniment is there to philosophy and Greek tragedies than a glass of wine?

Greece boasts an abundance of wine-producing regions, and if there is an island or an expanse of land in Greece, chances are someone is growing olives or wine grapes there. For the purpose of this article, let’s focus on the islands renowned for producing outstanding Greek wines. According to “The World Atlas of Wine” by Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson, some of these islands include Crete, Rhodes, Samos, and Santorini.

When it comes to Greek wines, white varieties tend to dominate over reds, as verified by Wines of Greece. However, the most widely planted red wine grape in Greece is agiorgitiko. Other popular wine grapes include moschofilero, xinomavro, and malagousia.

Now, let’s dive into the tasting notes of the three assyrtiko wines from Santorini that we recommend:

1. 2021 Gaia Wines Thalassitis Santorini Assyrtiko ($43 Suggested Retail Price)

This crisp white wine immediately captivates the senses with hints of sea salt and lime. As you continue to savor it, you’ll notice a slightly tart, mineral-like finish accompanied by hints of lemon and green apple. It is a beautifully balanced wine that is sure to please.

2. 2022 Santo Wines Santorini Assyrtiko ($28 SRP)

In this particular assyrtiko wine, citrus flavors take center stage, with notes of lemon and lime. Similar to the previous wine, it transitions into more tart flavors intertwined with hints of sea salt and minerals. A refreshing and delightful choice, especially when paired with shellfish and seafood.

3. 2021 Sigalas Santorini Assyrtiko ($44 SRP)

Out of the three assyrtiko wines, this one stands out, claiming the crown of excellence. From its expressive and soft flavors, starting with subtle hints of lemon, to its harmonious medley of sea salt, green apple, and peach, this wine takes you on a journey of finesse. Its smooth, mineral-like finish adds the perfect touch. It is no surprise that wines like this have been enjoyed for thousands of years.

In conclusion, Greek island wines are a treasure waiting to be uncovered. As you explore the enchanting landscapes of the Greek islands, don’t forget to indulge in the flavors of their exceptional wines. Yamas! (Cheers in Greek)

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