IT MAY BE ABLE TO TRACE ITS WINE HISTORY back some 6,000 years, perhaps longer than any country, but Greece looks forward, not backward, with the wine it produces today. While some wineries make Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and other wines from Western grapes, most make their best and most interesting wines from Greece’s own original native varieties.
And the country has hundreds of native grapes. Among the most important are Agiorgitiko, a grape that produces darkshaded, rich, velvety reds. The white Assyrtiko grape gives a good acidic edge to wines and is the most important grape on the island of Santoríni. The aroma of the delicate white Athiri grape is reminiscent of nectarines and lemons. Malagousia, a fine white grape, creates rich, aromatic wines with a melon-like scent. Moscofilero presents intense aromas that remind one of roses and other flower blossoms. And the red Xinomavro, one of the most distinguished red grapes of northern Greece, fosters wine with a spicy nose, rich fruit and firm tannin.
From these grapes and many others come highly individual wines. Most range $20–40 in price. Among those I’ve tasted is the lovely Nykteri 2016 from the island of Santoríni, made 95 percent from Assyrtiko. Pale yellow with a pure, dry taste, its acidity level gives it a clean, focused character, and it also offers a round body and medium-long aftertaste.
Also from Santoríni comes the Venetsanos Winery’s 2016 white wine, made 100 percent of Assyrtiko. This elegant wine boasts aromas rich in citrus fruits and flower scents, a whiff of peach and hints of herbs such as thyme.
From northern Greece I particularly enjoyed Biblia Chora’s Biblinos Red 2012, produced from an unnamed local grape believed to have been brought to the region by the Phoenicians, which ancient Greeks began to cultivate. Its aroma encompasses cassis, pomegranate and a potpourri of herbs. It is an elegant, well-balanced wine with a long, satisfying finish.
One taste of a fine Greek wine and we can readily understand why ancient Greeks worshipped Dionysus, the god of wine.
Read This Next
Airline Update: Asiana Airlines
Features
Jul 1, 2018
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Feb 13, 2025Trendy Delano Miami Beach Hotel Reopens This Year
Ennismore and partner Cain International are expecting to reopen the well-known Delano Miami Beach hotel in 2025 after completing a full renovation.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Egypt
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME JOURNEY INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE PHARAOHS
Daily
Feb 13, 2025Florida’s Amrit Ocean Resort Launches Wellness Retreat Series
Situated on Florida’s Singer Island, recently opened Amrit Ocean Resort launches a wellness retreat series. Held monthly, this series aims to inspire longevity. The first retreat kicks off Feb. 27.
Daily
Feb 13, 2025Aman to Open Its First Property in Bangkok
More than 35 years after opening its first property, Amanpuri, in Phuket, Aman returns to Thailand with the opening of Aman Nai Lert in Bangkok. Set to debut April 2, the 52-suite property lies within privately owned Nai Lert Park, offering guests a secluded haven in the middle of the bustling city, much like sister property Aman New York.
Sponsored Content
A Word with Nat Pieper, oneworld CEO
Name: Nat Pieper Title: CEO at oneworld City: Dallas, Texas First job: Stadium vendor
Daily
Feb 12, 2025Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival Returns in March
Celebrating the best of Asian and Asian American filmmaking, Colorado’s Dragon Boat Film Festival is a fun mix of screenings by established and emerging artists. The theme of this year’s event is Honoring Our Past to Guide Our Future, held March 14–16 at Denver Sie Center.
6 Destinations and Hotels for Solo Women Travelers
Daily
Feb 12, 2025New SIRO Hotel to Open in Tokyo in 2029
eFlyer News
Feb 12, 2025eFlyer Deals
Feb 12, 2025Have a Galentine’s to Remember at Holston House Nashville
Available for stays Feb. 13–17, Holston House Nashville’s Galentine’s offer is sure to elevate your girls’ trip to the next level. This offer starts at just $50 above the hotel’s standard room rate and comes with:
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
eFlyer Deals
Feb 12, 2025Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Deal at The Benjamin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Still looking for a Valentine’s Day offer? The Benjamin Royal Sonesta Hotel, in New York City, has the LOVE Ben promotion available. With this offer, enjoy a stay in the hotel’s signature suite, as well as a private, late-night MoMA tour for two (with transportation included).
ShareThis