Guide to Greek Wines

 Guide to Greek Wines

White Wines

1. Assyrtiko (Santorini)

   • Flavor: Crisp, citrusy, mineral-rich

   • Pairs with: Seafood, grilled octopus, lemony dishes

   • Try: Santorini PDO wines (often aged in stainless steel or oak)

2. Moschofilero (Peloponnese)

   • Flavor: Aromatic, floral, light-bodied

   • Pairs with: Spicy dishes, salads, appetizers

3. Roditis

   • Flavor: Fresh and easy-drinking, mild citrus

   • Good for: Table wine or summer sipping

4. Malagousia

   • Flavor: Peachy, herbal, rich

   • Up-and-coming grape: Rediscovered in the 20th century, now quite trendy

 Red Wines

1. Xinomavro (Naoussa, Northern Greece)

   • Flavor: Earthy, tannic, similar to Barolo (Nebbiolo)

   • Pairs with: Grilled meats, aged cheese

2. Agiorgitiko (Nemea, Peloponnese)

   • Flavor: Rich, plummy, velvety

   • Style: Can range from fresh rosés to full-bodied reds

3. Limnio (Thrace & Northern Aegean)

   • Ancient grape: Said to be mentioned by Aristotle

   • Flavor: Herbal, peppery, medium-bodied

Island Wines

• Santorini: Famous for Assyrtiko and Vinsanto (sweet wine from sun-dried grapes)

• Crete: Home to Vidiano (elegant white) and Liatiko (light red)

• Samos: Known for sweet Muscat wines

Unique Styles

• Retsina: White or rosé wine flavored with pine resin — acquired taste, best with Greek meze

• Vinsanto: Sweet dessert wine from Santorini, made with sun-dried Assyrtiko grapes