Guide to Greek Wines

Guide to Greek Wines
White Wines
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Assyrtiko (Santorini)
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Flavor: Crisp, citrusy, mineral-rich
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Pairs with: Seafood, grilled octopus, lemony dishes
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Try: Santorini PDO wines (often aged in stainless steel or oak)
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Moschofilero (Peloponnese)
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Flavor: Aromatic, floral, light-bodied
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Pairs with: Spicy dishes, salads, appetizers
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Roditis
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Flavor: Fresh and easy-drinking, mild citrus
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Good for: Table wine or summer sipping
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Malagousia
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Flavor: Peachy, herbal, rich
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Up-and-coming grape: Rediscovered in the 20th century, now quite trendy
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Red Wines
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Xinomavro (Naoussa, Northern Greece)
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Flavor: Earthy, tannic, similar to Barolo (Nebbiolo)
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Pairs with: Grilled meats, aged cheese
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Agiorgitiko (Nemea, Peloponnese)
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Flavor: Rich, plummy, velvety
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Style: Can range from fresh rosés to full-bodied reds
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Limnio (Thrace & Northern Aegean)
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Ancient grape: Said to be mentioned by Aristotle
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Flavor: Herbal, peppery, medium-bodied
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Island Wines
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Santorini: Famous for Assyrtiko and Vinsanto (sweet wine from sun-dried grapes)
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Crete: Home to Vidiano (elegant white) and Liatiko (light red)
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Samos: Known for sweet Muscat wines
Unique Styles
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Retsina: White or rosé wine flavored with pine resin — acquired taste, best with Greek meze
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Vinsanto: Sweet dessert wine from Santorini, made with sun-dried Assyrtiko grapes






