Overview
Ancient Assyrtiko vines — some 400 years old, ungrafted (phylloxera cannot survive in volcanic ash soil) — produce one of the world's most electric dry whites. Volcanic pumice and basalt, constant Aegean winds, and near-desert conditions concentrate the grapes intensely.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Pale lemon-green
- Nose
- Lemon zest, Lime, Green apple, Volcanic stone and Flint.
- Palate
- Electric, saline, volcanic — Greece's most thrilling white. Generally medium-bodied, electric acidity, dry, with a very long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Medium3/5
Tannins Silky1/5
Acidity Electric5/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol High4/5
Grapes
AssyrtikoAthiriAidani
Aromas And Notes
Lemon zestLimeGreen appleCitrus blossomVolcanic stoneFlintSea saltIodineHoneyPetrolToast
Terroir
Semi-arid Mediterranean — extreme sun, constant northerly Meltemi wind, volcanic pumice soil.
Volcanic pumiceAspa (sand/pumice)Basalt
Food Pairings
Grilled octopusSea urchinFava (split peas)Fried calamariGrilled fish
Notable Producers
- Estate Argyros, founded 1903 - Cuvée Monsignori Assyrtiko
- Domaine Sigalas, founded 1991 - Kavalieros