My introduction to Greek wines came via a trip to Santorini. (Six years ago, dang!) It was an epic journey, and I got to sport my summer torso wardrobe of white t-shirts. One of the most remarkable things about the island is its vineyards. These are not manicured rows that grace the cover of magazines and what not. Here’s an example:
Not Napa.
Yup, that’s a vineyard. The vines are woven like a basket, so they protect grapes hiding inside. Punishing winds and sun would wreck them if the vines and foliage weren’t low to the ground and therefore providing a shield. Pretty amazing, huh? Furthermore, you can see the vines are very close to the sea.
But, wait! Greek wines go way beyond the islands. Head to the mountainous mainland. What, can’t hop on a plane because of your dang life commitments/finances? Maybe you should soothe your disappointment by listening to the latest episode of the What We’re Tasting podcast. I speak with Wine Enthusiast Executive Editor Susan Kostrzewa, who reviews wines from Greece.
Greek Wines Podcast
The grapes we discuss are Assyrtiko, Moschofilero, and Xinomavro. The first two become white wines, while the latter blossoms into a red. (BTW, if you are jonesing for some Greek rosé, check out one of the best I’ve had this year.)
Again, I’d like to beat the drum for checking out the indigenous grapes of a country with an extremely long wine history, like Greece. Nothing wrong with California Chardonnay but one of the things that makes wine fun and still interesting for a dude with not one but two history degrees (Grinnell Pioneer and NAU Lumberjack) is exploring the globe via unique grape growing regions. Set sail!
