With legendary regions like Roja, Bordeaux, and Chianti claiming such prominent places in the world of wine, it can be easy to overlook a country like Greece. For some, their familiarity with Greek wine may not extend beyond the iconic goblets, etched with scenes of ancients, that appear is so many history books. Of course, with that centuries-old tradition of making wine, the current winemakers of today have plenty to draw from. Here is a small sampling of Greek wines, from a few different regions, that our tasting panel found to their liking.
Argyros Santorini 2010 Assyrtiko
Grape(s): 100% Assyrtiko
Region: Santorini
Price: 20-25
Review:
A bright bouquet of citrus fruit, springtime flowers, and minerals greets the senses. Flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and lime meld with suggestions of minerals. A lively white, with a fresh acidity, fans of crisp, minerally wines will enjoy this bottle.
Rating: 88
Domaine Gerovassiliou 2010 Malagousia
Grape(s): 100% Malagouia
Region: Epanomi
Price: 20-25
Review:
Aromas of white blossoms, peach, and tropical fruit rise up from a glass. Flavors of peach, passion fruit, and lemon meld with suggestions of white pepper, herbs, and floral notes on the palate. Somewhat round and slightly floral, fans of Viognier should give this bottle a try.
Rating: 89
ALPHA ESTATE 2008 XINOMAVRO
Grape(s): 100% Xinomavro
Region: Amyndeon
Price: 25-30
Review:
Aromatics of blackberries and cherries come together with notes of pepper, anise, and sweet spice greet the senses. The palate delivers flavors of tart blackberry and cherry with accents of spice, leather, and clove. Fans of Spanish reds and hearty Rhone blends should try this wine.
Rating: 90
Parparoussis 2006 Muscat
Grape(s): 100% Muscat
Region: Rio Patras
Price: 30-35
Review:
Notes of apricots and citrus fruits come together with allusions of honey and Asian spice on the nose. Flavors of apricot, orange, caramel, honey, and sweet spice emerge on the palate. A round, fairly sweet white with a slight floral character, if you enjoy rich, full-bodied dessert wines, this is a bottle for you.
Rating: 88