When in Athens ….. drink even more Greek Wine
My friend is an epicurean and booked us a dinner at Simul Gastronomic Situ, a Michelin Guide restaurant in Athens, for the Degustation with the Wine Pairing. Needless to say, the food was superb but what stood out for me was the enthusiasm and excellent pairings the sommelier created. He was excited to be with a fellow wine professional who wanted to know more about Greek wines. Below is a selection of wines tasted on the night (and not all of them were Greek).
Ktima Apostolidi Bulles des Coteaux Brut Nature 2021
The Assytiko was aged for 9 months in oak before going through the traditional method. The wine initially came across as herbal with fresh thyme and oregano with a touch of lemon. There was a musky tannic grip and then the lees came through along with grape, vanilla, orange pith, dry sherry and a taste of slightly over-ripe orange. There were medium strength bubbles that tingled on a walnut and caramel finish. Interesting.
Rating: Delish
Domaine Marcel Deiss Riquewihr (year unknown)
A field blend with 70% Riesling and by the taste, Muscat, Gewurtztraminer and Pinot Gris. The aroma on the nose was pronounced and heralded the flavours on the palate. Honey, rose, muscat, lemon, orange, and herbs enveloped my mouth. The wine was incredibly complex and well balanced with the high acidity that gave this off-dry wine beautiful freshness. This was the standout wine for the night (although it was not Greek).
Rating: Outstanding
Estate Argyros Santorini Cuvee Gerontampelo 2020
This wine was an excellent example of a top Assytiko from Santorini. It delivered flavours of saline, lemon, dried and fresh herbs with a white granite and mineral undertone. High in acidity and beautifully structured.
Rating: Bloody Delish
Ktima Zafeirakis Limniona 2022
Liminona is a grape variety I had not tasted prior to this visit to Athens and it is a variety that has won me over. This wine immediately hit me with aromas of red cherry and raspberry. Then the blue notes kicked in. It had so much depth and complexity and was beautifully balanced.
Rating: Bloody Delish
Markovitis Winery 2015 Xinomavro (Naoussa)
This grape variety is not my favourite - for the same reasons that I am not a big fan of Nebbiolo - because of the high level of tannins which I personally find mask the fruit if the wine is less than 15 years old. This wine was 10 years old and the tannin was just starting to smooth out. It tasted of the clear juice of the tomato, tomato leaf and beetroot juice. I could taste that this wine had potential and would be much better in 5 years time.
Despite not being my favourite grape variety, it was an excellent pairing with the dish of rooster in tomato.
Rating: Delish (I am being a bit harsh but I am showing my personal preference here – my friend rated it much higher)