Showing posts with label greece. Show all posts
Showing posts with label greece. Show all posts

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  • Date publishedSaturday, March 9, 2024

Samos Vin Doux White Muscat (Greece) - Wine Review



wine review is a delectably sweet fortified wine from the Island of Samos in Greece that made its inaugural arrival at the LCBO in last weekend's LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by United Winemaking Agricultural Cooperative of Samos (UWC Samos), one of the oldest cooperative wineries in Greece as it was founded in 1934. UWC Samos is also one of Greece's biggest wineries, composed of more than 2,200 producers participating in the Cooperative as members.

The Cooperative was formed after actions taken by the vine growers of the island in 1934, and has proved that the alliance was a strategically important move that helped the preservation of viticulture on the island, as well as the protection of the producers' income. As a cooperative, the principal objective of UWC Samos is to advance the economic and social conditions of its member vine growers and, in general, the Samian society. UWC Samos receives the grapes, produces the wine, and trades almost the entire production of the island through their modern wineries in Malagari (the capital of the island) and Karlovassi (the second-biggest town). In a harmonious combination with traditional viticulture and winemaking, UWC Samos is in constant search for modernization while investing in technology and know-how. The wines of Samos have received hundreds of distinctions at international competitions and fairs over the years, with the very first award received in 1937.

While Somas Muscat wines of Protected Designation of Origin Samos (or PDO Samos) are one of the oldest origin-controlled appellations in Europe, the history of viticulture on the island goes back much further. When one thinks of Samos vineyards, the word's mythology, history, and the name of "Ampelos" (Vine) for one of the two mountain ranges that dominate the island come to mind. The history of Samos wine dates back to early antiquity, while legend says that Dionysus (the god of wine) taught the Samians all about winegrowing and winemaking in order to thank them for their help in defeating the Amazons. According to tradition, the first person to teach winegrowing to the inhabitants of the island was the hero of the Argonauts, Agkaios. There are also historical references in antiquity that reference the wines of Samos in the writings of Hippocrates, Galenos, and Theophrastos, while "Samena" military ships transported wine in amphorae with a pointed base from Samos to various ports in other parts of the globe. References to Samos wine are also found during the Byzantine period, when a traveller clergyman visited the island in 741 AD.

A turbulent history on the island culminated in the almost complete desolation of the land during the 15th century, which resulted in the abandonment of the vineyards as natives lived in hiding in inaccessible mountain areas. Fortunately, Samos was recolonized a century later with people arriving from all parts of Greece, and the history of Muscat wines on the Island of Samos begins again. During the Ottoman occupation and after 1562, European forces appear to be commercially interested in the wines of Samos and setup Consulates on the island for this purpose. Samos' wines were noted by French and German travellers during the 18th century, and in the 19th century, Samos was supplying branded wines to the east and west, while the Catholic Church granted Samos the privilege of producing wine certified by the Catholic Mission.

In 2016, UWC Samos formed a strategic alliance with Greek Wine Cellars to further the commercial development of the award-winning Samos wines, with the aim of strengthening its position in domestic and international markets.

As a fortified wine, the Samos Vin Doux falls under the Vins de Liqueurs category. Not only is it the most popular wine of Samos, this wine is also the No. 1 selling sweet wine in Greece. It is crafted using the indigenous White Muscat of Samos, the grape that reigns king on the island. It was grown on semi-mountainous and mountainous terraces that are influenced by the sun and the Aegean winds. Let's see how this Vin de Liqueur from Samos is tasting tonight...

Samos Vin Doux White Muscat (90+ pts)

Tasting Note:

SAMOS VIN DOUX WHITE MUSCAT - PDO Samos, Greece (#44578) (S) - $15.95
Attractive, medium-high intensity nose of dried apricot, orange marmalade, peach, and honey aromas with a touch of golden raisin. It's mid-weighted on the palate with a sweet and spicy flavour profile of dried apricot, peach, orange zest, honey, and raisin replays, plus butterscotch and caramel flavours adding further complexity. It has well-balanced acidity, along with some warmth on the mid-palate, while notes of dried apricot, orange zest, caramel, and touches of vanilla linger on the long, delicious finish. Really sings after a nice chill. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Small quantities of other fine wines by UWC Samos are available at the LCBO, while the entire range can be ordered through their Agent - Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.


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  • Date publishedThursday, February 29, 2024

Hatzimichalis Alfega White 2022 (Greece) - Wine Review

white wine review is a lovely Smart Buy from Greece that was a new arrival at the LCBO in the LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, with quite a few bottles still available across Ontario.

It is produced by Domaine Hatzimichalis, a winery that was founded by Dimitris Hatzimichalis, who made his first wine in the backyard of his home at the young age of 19 years old. With a quickly evolving passion for wine, Dimitris was inspired to put a small wine press in the back of his family's office, while also studying the history of wine. In 1973, Dimitris purchased his first 9 hectares of land, which was situated in Atalanti Valley.

Dimitris selected the Atalanti Valley because he noticed the unique microclimate that existed in the area. The Atalanti Valley is situated in Central Greece, between the cool breezes of Mount Parnassus and the Euboean gulf of the Aegean Sea. Smaller-scale viticulture had already found a home in Atalanti prior to the arrival of Domaine Hatzimichalis, which was an important factor in Dimitris' decision to invest in the area. The terroir at Domaine Hatzimichalis is surrounded by the ideal ecosystem for winegrowing.

During the early years of Domaine Hatzimichalis, Dimitris laid the foundation for a well-structured business. Moreover, at that time, Greek winemaking was not as evolved as it is now. Today, many people credit Dimitris Hatzimichalis for being one of the leaders of the Greek Wine Revolution. Dimitris' intensive studies in all areas of winemaking, along with its history, led him to decide on the most ideal varieties to cultivate in his vineyards. He also made additional investments in infrastructure, including top-tier equipment, and developed partnerships with those that had experience and passion to further the development of Greek wine.

The label of Domaine Hatzimichalis has a connection to Canada. Dimitris had a long-standing passion for breeding birds and developed a farm for breeding turkeys, which helped support some of the vineyard expenses. The Canadian connection is that the turkeys were imported from Canada and bred for the traditional Christmas table in Greece. Dimitris continues to breed turkeys today, and the turkey proudly adorns the labels and corks of each Domaine Hatzimichalis wine.

It is also interesting to know that harvest and pruning activities are performed by a group of skilful and experienced Greek women. The choice was deliberate as, according to Domaine Hatzimichalis, Greek women are known for their caring, patient, and tender character, as well as their overall courage and strength. Inspired and amazed by their care for the vineyards, Dimitris' vision is to create authentic wines that support local culture and values.

Alfega is the name of this white wine, and it comes from the first and last letter of the Greek alphabet, representing their philosophy to make wines from the first stage through to the last. Hatzimichalis cultivates their own grapes, vinifies their own wines, and distributes their own products. This white wine is a blend of two indigenous varieties, Malagousia (40%) and Robola (20%) that combine harmoniously with 40% Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes were grown in the PGI Valley of Atalanti, which is situated in the district of Fthiotida, within the region of Central Greece. The grapes were selected from their own sub-mountainous vineyards, with each variety fermented separately in temperature-controlled, stainless steel vats, prior to blending and bottling. Let's see how this 2022 white wine from Greece is tasting tonight...

Hatzimichalis Alfega White 2022 (90+ pts)

Tasting Note:

HATZIMICHALIS ALFEGA WHITE 2022 - PGI Valley of Atalanti, Greece (#33255) (XD) - $15.95
This blend of 40% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Malagousia, and 20% Robola has an elegant, medium-high intensity nose that delivers lemon citrus, apple, pear, and floral aromas layered over nuances of leesy mineral, tropical fruit, apricot, and subtle spice. It has good weight, concentration, and structure on the medium+ to medium-full bodied palate that is dry and ripe with lovely lemon citrus, apple, pear, floral flavours, plus touches of spice and leesy mineral adding a savoury component. It has juicy, succulent acidity and a nicely textured mouthfeel, plus some saline characters on the mid-palate. Complex and inviting with citrusy, stone fruit, spice, and leesy mineral notes lingering on the long, satisfying finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

One other wine by Domaine Hatzimichalis can be found currently at the LCBO, while the entire range can be ordered through their Agent - Dionysus Wines & Spirits.


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  • Date publishedSaturday, December 16, 2023

Kechris Xinomavro 2020 (Greece) - Wine Review

red wine review is a lovely single vineyard Xinomavro from northern Greece and a brand-new arrival at the LCBO that landed on shelves across Ontario earlier this month as part of the LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection on .

It is produced by Kechris, a winery whose roots were founded in 1939 when it began producing "Kechribari" retsina wines at their family restaurant, Kokoras, in the old town of Thessaloniki in northern Greece. The Kechris family's reputation for producing high-quality retsina spread rapidly and led to increased demand. In 1954, the four siblings of the Kechris family established a liquor company, E. Kechris Bros., in Kalochori, Thessaloniki. At their modern, state-of-the-art facilities, they continued producing "Kechribari", but also started producing ouzo, brandy and a variety of fruit liqueurs, and by 1974, they began exporting their products to other countries.

In 1984, Stelios Kechris took over the management of the family business and, in the same year, they began producing "Doriki" homemade liqueurs. Although Stelios studied chemistry at the University of Thessaloniki, Greece, he also obtained an Enology degree in 1978 from the University of Dijon, France.

In 1993, Kechris and twelve other winemakers in Macedonia founded the Wine Producers Association of the Macedonian Vineyard, which is now known as the Wine Roads of Northern Greece. This pioneering association aimed to promote its members' standardized Greek wine brands. In 1998, Stelios' daughter, Eleni Kechri, joined the company, and after she completed her studies in Bordeaux, she returned to Greece in 2003 and began applying new and innovative winemaking techniques at Kechris. In 2009, Kechris completed the construction of their brand-new winery, while in 2017 another new building was constructed to house the cooling room, optimize white variety vinification, and other various winemaking functions.

Today, Kechris is based on values defined by their identity. And their identity is defined by their actions. Thus, they try to express their values through their actions, which are based on Tradition In Motion, Quality, Innovation, and Directness. The philosophy at Kechris is multifaceted, linked to their culture and to people. For Kechris, wine is also linked to life itself, as it gives value to life's various moments - bringing us closer and helping us share thoughts and emotions.

The red wine is crafted with 100% Xinomavro that was grown in the PGI Slopes of Paiko zone, which is located in the district of Kilkis, in the northern part of central Macedonia. Mount Paiko rises in the northern parts of the neighbouring districts of Kilkis and Pella, while the PGI Slopes of Paiko zone is situated on the eastern slopes of the mountain, overlooking Kilkis, and covers areas within the municipalities of Goumenissa and Evropos. From grapes produced according to integrated farming practices, the grapes for this wine were picked from selected vineyard plots in Goumenissa, from vines planted on clay loam and rocky soil. After harvesting the grapes late in the growing season in October, they were vinified with long skin contact and matured for 18 months in oak barrels, and bottled without filtering. Let's see how this 2020 Xinomavro from Greece is tasting tonight...

Kechris Xinomavro 2020 (91 pts)

Tasting Note:

KECHRIS XINOMAVRO 2020 - PGI Slopes of Paiko, Greece (#33262) (XD) - $29.95
Unfiltered, this single vineyard Xinomavro has a medium+ to medium-high intensity nose that offers pretty aromas of dried rose and red cherry, followed by sweet baking spice and cinnamon, plus touches of oak spice and earth. It's medium-full bodied with big, firm, youthful, and drying tannins that play up to the fruit. Lovely dried rose, cherry, cedary wood spice, and cinnamon flavours lead to a juicy, succulent mid-palate. It's well-structured with high, gently tangy acidity. Delicious flavour replays are joined by touches of smoky earth on long, dry finish. Enjoy now with protein (like lamb), or cellar and enjoy into the early 2030's. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Small quantities of other wines by Kechris Winery are available at the LCBO, while the entire range can be ordered through their Agent - Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.


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  • Date publishedThursday, November 23, 2023

Katogi Averoff Inima Xinomavro 2018 (Greece) - Wine Review

red wine review is an excellent Xinomavro from Greece that is brand new to the LCBO, arriving in stores across Ontario last weekend in the LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Katogi Averoff, a Greek winery that began as a hobby in the late 1905's when Evangelos Averoff, a prominent politician, author, and businessman, planted the first Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Greece, on the steep slopes of Mount Pindus. He later bottled the first vintage of what would become the famous Katogi Averoff wines at his home cellar in Metsovo. The words "Vines of France on the mountains of Greece..." adorned the label of the first wine, a label which he lovingly designed.

While initially just a hobby, Averoff developed a vision to replant and transform the abandoned slopes of Pindus into vineyards, as well as revive the indigenous vinicultural tradition that flourished in the region in the 18th and 19th centuries. He also had a desire to boost the economic and cultural development in the region.

With the help of experts in Greece and France, Averoff developed one of Greece's most celebrated and highest-altitude vineyards, which are situated 950 - 1,050 metres above sea level. He also built a small winery on the eastern outskirts of Metsovo and became famous in Greece, while also garnering international awards. Averoff's red wine became the cornerstone of his quest to revive indigenous Greek grape varieties and develop successful blends with foreign varieties, a vision that was reflected in Katogi being one of the earliest to embrace authentic vinegrowing and winemaking methods.

After Evangelos Averoff passed away in 1990, Katogi Averoff continued to grow while remaining true to its founder's vision. His son-in-law, Sotiris Ioannou, became managing director and, under his guidance, new vineyards were planted in the Metsovo region, while experimenting with new grape varieties and blends continued. The winery has also undergone constant updates and expansion, thereby increasing production and expanding its national and international distribution.

Today, Katogi Averoff is managed by Alexander Ioannou, Evangelos' grandson, and continues to cultivate vineyards in the Metsovo region, while focusing on reviving indigenous varieties of the region, and developing wine tourism. The philosophy at Katogi Averoff is based on finding inspiration in life and people, in vines that flourish under difficult conditions, in bears and birds - their companions in the Metsovo vineyards, and in people who overcome all adversities to create. Katogi Averoff is inspired by everything that delights the senses and frees the mind and soul - everything that transforms their winemaking pursuit into a true state of mind.

The name of this wine is "Inima", which means "heart, soil" in Metsovo's local Vlach dialect. This wine is an expression of the positive energy and enthusiasm of everyone who has put their heart and soul into the production of this new range of wines by Katogi Averoff. It is crafted with 100% Xinomavro that was grown in a select vineyard in Rudina, within PDO Naoussa in northern Greece. The 30+ year-old vines are planted on well-drained, sandy clay soil, while the climate in the region is continental, with cold winters and hot summers. Furthermore, the cool air currents from Mount Vermion allow the grapes to ripen fully. After harvesting the grapes in late-September, the grapes were macerated for 7 days, followed by undergoing alcoholic fermentation for 20 days. The wine is then transferred into 300 L French Nevers-oak barrels to undergo malolactic fermentation. It rests on its lees for 2 months, and is aged in barrel for a minimum of 10 months. Let's see how this 2018 Xinomavro from Greece is tasting tonight...

Katogi Averoff Inima Xinomavro 2018 (91 pts)

Tasting Note:

KATOGI AVEROFF INIMA XINOMAVRO 2018 - PDO Naoussa, Greece (#30680) (XD) - $27.95
100% Xinomavro, this has clean, fragrant, and slightly perfumed aromatics that are intense with dark red cherry, black cherry, savoury wet earth, and sandalwood notes, along with touches of fine oak spice, black plum, and rose floral notes emerging with time in the glass. It's medium-full bodied with firm, grippy, and drying tannins that add weight and structure to the palate. It's dry with lovely flavours of black cherry, dark red cherry, savoury wet earth, rose floral, sandalwood, and oak spice replays, with touches of licorice and leather adding further complexity. It has very good, juicy acidity, while savoury earth with touches of mineral linger on the long, dry finish. It reminds me a bit of Nebbiolo. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other fine wines by Katogi Averoff can be ordered through their Agent - Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.


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  • Date publishedSaturday, November 18, 2023

Wine Art Techni Alipias Red Blend 2019 (Greece) - Wine Review

After enjoying the delicious 2018 Wine Art Techni Alipias Red Blend at a wine dinner last October, red wine review is the latest vintage to come to Ontario as it arrived at the LCBO today in the LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Wine Art Estate, a project of passion and love for wine that began in 1993 when Yiannis Papadopoulos planted a small family vineyard on the outskirts of Drama, in the northeastern end of Macedonia in northern Greece. Wine Art Estate is located in the heart of the Drama wine region that is made up of quiet valleys, exceptional micro-climates, and rich soil that shapes the character of the wines. Yiannis was inspired by the love for the vine, the beautiful landscape, and blessed with a unique terroir that delivers wines of great elegance.

The vineyards at Wine Art Estate are planted on carefully chosen slopes situated between two parallel mountains - Mount Falakro and Mount Menikion - which create a unique winegrowing environment that offers amazing potential for the production of distinctive, high-quality, aromatic, flavourful, and balanced wines. The soil is mainly sandy-clay over limestone layers, and highly suitable for the cultivation of Greek and international varieties. Of particular interest are the blocks in the Kali Vrisi area, a location that has been known since ancient times for the cultivation of vines and production of wines, as indicated at the ruins of the Sanctuary of Dionysus. Kali Vrisi was chosen for its rich soil and is known as a premium wine growing area.

Wine Art Estate has planted many grape varieties among its vineyards, ranging from Greek varieties, French varieties, Italian varieties, and even the Portuguese variety Touriga Nacional. All of the vines are carefully tended to so that top quality fruit can be obtained. The ultimate goal is to produce wines that are firmly rooted with a distinct sense of place, while also characterized by freshness, finesse, and elegance.

Like the previous vintage, this red wine is also a blend composed of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Agiorgitiko. The grapes were grown in vineyards that are under conversion to organic viticulture in the Drama wine region, in the villages of Mikrochori and Kali Vrisi, areas that are near each other. The soil in these vineyards is sandy-clay over limestone layers in Kali Vrisi, and sandy-clay in Mikrochori. The vineyards have a continental climate with intense diurnal temperature shifts between day and night, along with cool, northern winds during summer. To craft this wine, each variety was vinified separately, with the grapes undergoing a cold soak of the skins to the juice prior to fermentation, thus transferring noble phenols and structure. It was fermented in stainless steel tanks, with regular pump-over to extract colour and tannin. After malolactic fermentation, the wine was transferred to French oak barrels (1/3 new), and was matured in these barrels for 12 months. After maturation, the wine is blended, then placed in tanks for settling, and finally bottled.

The 2019 growing season in Drama is showing to be an excellent year for red wines. It began with mild temperatures and little rain, while temperatures remained low during the winter months. Temperatures were slightly higher in spring, which led to quality fruit, while almost daily rains from June to mid-July led to a late harvest. The growing conditions allowed for good organoleptic characteristics of the grapes, including good acidity levels due to increased humidity. Let's see how this 2019 red wine from Greece is tasting tonight...

Wine Art Techni Alipias Red Blend 2019 (90 pts)

Tasting Note:

WINE ART TECHNI ALIPIAS RED BLEND 2019 - IGP Drama, Greece (#26944) (XD) - $29.95
This blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Agiorgitiko has a fragrant, perfumed, medium-high intensity nose that offers attractive black cherry and dark plum aromas flecked with dark red cherry, olive, currant, cedary oak, and wet earth notes that add interest and complexity. It's medium bodied and dry on the palate with lovely dark currant, black cherry, plum, elegant cedary oak spice, with a touch of pleasant medicinal and eucalypt characters. Acids are fresh and nicely balanced, while the elegant tannins are smooth, supple, and fine-grained. Savoury wet earth and woody notes linger on the long, juicy finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 3-4 years. Score: 90 pts

Other lovely wines by Wine Art Estate can be found not only at the LCBO, but also through their Agent - Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.


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  • Date publishedSaturday, November 11, 2023

Skouras Wild Ferment Assyrtiko 2022 (Greece) - Wine Review

white wine review is a lovely wild fermented Assyrtiko from Greece. It brand new to the LCBO, arriving in-store (and online) as part of last weekend's LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Domaine Skouras, a well-known winery that was founded by George Skouras, who was born in Argos, within the Peloponnese region, in southern Greece. Argos is one of the oldest towns in Europe with a 3,000 year tradition of wine and culture. George's interest in wine led him to study Agriculture at the University of Dijon, in Burgundy, France, in 1980. However, it was his acquaintance with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as meeting the famous local wine growers, that put a spell on him. Upon graduating from Dijon with a degree in oenology, George started gathering experience in many of the classic wine-producing regions in France, Italy, and Greece.

In 1986, George's long-held vision of having his own winery was realized with the creation of Domaine Skouras. The small winemaking facility was initially located in Pyrgela, a small village on the outskirts of Argos, followed by the creation of a boutique winery within the Nemea Appellation of northeastern Peloponnese, in the village of Gimno. In Nemea, George performed countless hours of manual work on an extremely small scale while learning about the Agiorgitiko variety and the Nemea denomination - lessons which became invaluable.

Today, Domaine Skouras is an ultra-modern winery that remains located in Nemea, in the highlands of Argolida, an area that is blessed with ideal winegrowing conditions, particularly for the Agiorgitiko variety. The winery is situated in Argolida, northeastern Peloponnese, close to the provinces of Corinthia and Arcadia, just a few kilometres from Argos, in the village of Malandreni. The Nemea zone is the largest - and quite possibly the most exciting - Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) for red wines in Greece, while the nearby PDO of Mantinia and other surrounding areas which do not have PDO status have excellent terroirs for viticulture. Domaine Skouras owns a number of vineyards across all of these areas.

As a skilled winemaker, George Skouras is dedicated to crafting high-quality wines that showcase Greek terroir. In addition to their own vineyards, Skouras also collaborates with select, quality-oriented vine growers, under the expert guidance of the Skouras viticulture team. The philosophy at Domaine Skouras is focused on purity, varietal clarity, tracing of the region's mesoclimate, and imprint of the terroir, with the aim of achieving optimum ripeness and obtaining the best possible grape, as the better the fruit is at harvest, the better the wine. Contributing to the winery's success, Domaine Skouras embraces modern techniques, while putting a strong emphasis on minimal intervention in the winemaking process.

This white wine is crafted with 100% Assyrtiko that was grown in the village of Gymno, Nemea, at 620 metres above sea level. The vines are fairly young, averaging 9 years old, and planted on red clay soil. After harvesting the grapes in September, they are whole bunch pressed and underwent alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel, followed by 4 months of sur lie ageing, all in stainless steel. Let's see how this 2022 Assyrtiko from Greece is tasting tonight...

Skouras Wild Ferment Assyrtiko 2022 (91 pts)

Tasting Note:

SKOURAS WILD FERMENT ASSYRTIKO 2022 - PGI Peloponnese, Greece (#32387) (XD) - $25.95
Screw cap. The attractive, medium-high intensity nose is ripe and inviting with a lovely mix of lemon citrus, leesy mineral, grapefruit, and tropical fruit aromas, plus hints of white peach, floral, and saline adding further complexity. It's medium-full bodied and dry on the nicely structured palate with delicious grapefruit, lemon citrus, leesy mineral, peach, and floral replays. Some saline and spice characters appear on the mid-palate. Acids are fresh and juicy with nice structure. It's nicely balanced throughout with citrusy, mineral, and subtle spice notes lingering on the long and very juicy finish. Enjoy over the next 5-6 years, and quite possibly longer. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines by Domaine Skouras (including the 2022 Skouras Cuvée Prestige White which also arrived in this release) can be found at the LCBO, or ordered through their Agent - Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.


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  • Date publishedFriday, April 21, 2023

Anatolikos Vineyards (Greece) - Winemaker's Dinner

Anatolikos Winemaker's Dinner - Main Course
Back in , I enjoyed the fine wines of Anatolikos Vineyards with winemaker Sakis Nikolaidis at the new (and very secluded) Vintage Conservatory location in Yorkville, downtown Toronto. The wines were paired with a specially prepared 4-course dinner and hosted by Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits, the agency who represents the wines of Anatolikos Vineyards.

Anatolikos Vineyards was established in 2005 by brothers Sakis and Marios Nikolaidis. The Nikolaidis brothers are from Xanthi in northeastern Greece and experienced businessmen in the field of gastronomy. Their vineyard is located in the Avdira area of Xanthi, which is in the Thrace region of Greece. The city of Avdira is known from the ancient times as a city of initiative. In this same spirit in the year 2000, the Nikolaidis brothers began the revival of a famous ancient vineyard and in 2005 Anatolikos Vineyards started farming Greek and foreign grape varieties on the site.

The vineyard is located on the dry hills of Avdira at an elevation of 50-70 metres above sea level, approximately 3 km north of the Thrace Sea, and features sandy soils, continuous cool winds, and Avdira's micro-climate which is great for growing high quality grapes. Avdira's micro-climate offers an ideal environment for the cultivation of grapes as it experiences very little, but necessary, rainfall, while the evenings have low temperatures. The thermal amplitude between warm days and cool nights is about 13-15°C.

Today, Anatolikos Vineyards has 10 varietal and regional wines in their portfolio, all certified organic, vegan, and vegetarian, and continues to develop and expand the vineyard. The wines are grown according to the principals of bio-agriculture, cultivating traditional grape varieties from the lands of Avdira and Thrace, highlighting the history and interest of the wider region. One of the more interesting facts I learned from Sakis is that their wines are aged outdoors in clay amphorae for 270 days. They also continue to develop the distribution channels in Greece and overseas. In Canada, the lovely wines of Anatolikos Vineyards are available via Kolonaki.

Thank you to the team at Kolonaki for a lovely evening and the opportunity to taste these fine, certified vegan and organic wines from Greece. All five wines were great and really complemented the food pairings very nicely. Full reviews of each wine is provided below and all of the Anatolikos Vineyards wines can be purchased through Kolonaki Fine Wines & Spirits.

Anatolikos Winemaker's Dinner - AppetizerAnatolikos Winemaker's Dinner - Second Course

Anatolikos Winemaker's Dinner - Dessert

Tasting Notes:

ANATOLIKOS FINE ASSYRTIKO 2021 - PGI Avdira, Greece (XD) - $34.95
Aged for 6 months on fine lees in French oak barrels, this Assyrtiko has an elegant, medium-high to highly aromatic nose that is leesy with citrus, herbs, and earthy mineral aromas. On the medium-bodied, well-structured palate, it is fleshy and gains weight in the mouth with pleasing aroma replays, plus salty notes on the ripe flavour profile. With balanced acidity, it is nicely textured on the mid-palate, continuing on the long finish with touches of vanilla and butter. Score: 90+ pts

Anatolikos Fine Assyrtiko 2021 (90+ pts)Anatolikos Malagousia 2021 (91 pts)

ANATOLIKOS MALAGOUSIA 2021 - PGI Avdira, Greece (XD) - $32.95
Fermented with indigenous yeast and spending some time in French oak barrels, this Malagousia has a lovely, fragrant, highly aromatic nose featuring aromas of anise, wild herbs, chamomile, some citrus, and touches of sweet oak. It's medium-full bodied on the nicely textured, dry palate with lovely, flavourful replays joined by floral notes. It's well-structured with good acidity, and very good length on the finish. Score: 91 pts

ANATOLIKOS ORANGE WINE 2019 - PGI Avdira, Greece (XD) - $61.95
Blend of 80% Assyrtiko and 20% Malagousia that was grown on sandy hills with stony subsoil at a distance of 3 km from the sea. This skin-fermented white (aka orange wine) was fermented in amphora with native yeasts. It offers a medium+ intensity nose with aromas of tea leaf, orange citrus, herbs, and spices. It's medium-full to full-bodied and harmonious with lovely, dry aroma replays, and nicely textured with a chalky mouthfeel. Impressively concentrated and a lingering finish. Score: 92 pts

Anatolikos Orange Wine 2019 (92 pts)

ANATOLIKOS MV MAVROUDI OF THRACE 2018 - PGI Avdira, Greece (XD) - $36.95
Organically grown blend of 60% Mavroudi, 20% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, it was fermented with native yeasts and aged for 10 months in French oak barrels. The fragrant, medium-high to highly aromatic nose is spicy with dark currant, dark berry, cassis, and blackberry aromas. On the medium-full to full-bodied palate it is structured with mildly grippy, yet smooth tannins balanced with fresh, juicy acidity. It has nicely balanced aroma replays on the flavour profile with a tinge of cocoa on the long finish. Score: 91+ pts

Anatolikos MV Mavroudi of Thrace 2018 (91+ pts)Anatolikos Fine Mavroudi of Thrace 2019 (93 pts)

ANATOLIKOS FINE MAVROUDI OF THRACE 2019 - PGI Avdira, Greece (XD) - $49.95
Organically grown 100% Mavroudi, this has an elegant, medium-high to highly aromatic nose of spices, pepper spice, ripe dark berry, blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. It's medium-full to full-bodied on the palate with appealing ripe currant, pepper spice, and green herbal flavours which are supported by fresh acidity and smooth, refined tannins. Elegant and nicely balanced throughout, with excellent length on the finish. Score: 93 pts


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  • Date publishedMonday, October 3, 2022

Wine Art Estate (Greece) - Wine Dinner

Wine Art Estate Wine Tasting
At the I had the pleasure of attending a Greek wine dinner at Petros 82 featuring the wines of Wine Art Estate.

With a love for wine and passion to explore the vinification procedure, Yiannis Papadopoulos planted a small family vineyard in 1993 on the outskirts of Drama in the northeastern end of Macedonia in northern Greece and founded Wine Art Estate. Yiannis is actually a civil engineer by profession but wanted to make wine that he loves to drink and share with his friends. He pivoted from wine lover to winemaker by first reviving a family-owned vineyard and then constructing a winemaking facility in his old paternal home in Mikrochori, Drama. He also built a small underground cellar for ageing his wines. His first wines were produced with the contributions of consultant oenologists and showed enormous potential. Several years later, his friend and fellow wine lover, Yiannis Kalaitzidis, architect and engineer, joined the company as a partner.

Following the trends at the time, Wine Art Estate focused on growing French varieties, followed by a selection of Greece's emblematic varietals such as Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Agiorgitiko and Xinomavro. This was evident during dinner as a couple of the wines we tasted were blends primarily based on Bordeaux varieties.

Kolonaki Group - Petros 82 - Wine Art Estate

In 2009, Akis Papadopoulos, Yiannis' son, returned from his studies in Bordeaux and took over as Chief Oenologist. Also joining the team as viticulturalist was Iralklis Topalidis whose was focused on the importance of the vineyard in quality winemaking. Today, Wine Art Estate is dedicated to quality, and to a winemaking philosophy that respects harmony and nature. In addition, the believe that great wines begin in the vineyard and are grown by those who adapt, listen to nature, and are respectful of the land’s energy. They are committed to sustainable winegrowing without compromising wine quality and to preserving nature for generations to come. With three decades of winemaking experience and an intimate block-by-block approach in the vineyard, Wine Art Estate is focused on its core belief that the best wines are the result of the connection between nature and man.

Thank you to Kolonaki Group of Companies for the invitation and opportunity to taste these lovely wines, as well as experience the fine cuisine of Petros 82. Wine reviews of each wine tasted are provided below. The Malagousia and Techni Alipias Red are available at the LCBO, while the other two wines can be ordered through Kolonaki.

Wine Art Estate Group Photo

Tasting Notes:

PLANO MALAGOUSIA 2021 - PGI Drama, Greece (#27225) (XD) - $21.50
100% Malagousia. The medium-high to highly aromatic nose is elegant and complex with flinty minerality, citrus, herbs, lemongrass, fennel, and anise aromas. It's nicely textured on the ripe, dry, lightly honeyed, medium+ bodied palate with very nice aroma replays. Fresh acids linger through to the finish, with very good length. Score: 90+ pts

Plano Malagousia 2021 (90+ pts)Wine Art Techni Alipias White Blend 2021 (89 pts)

WINE ART TECHNI ALIPIAS WHITE BLEND 2021 - PGI Drama, Greece (#27224) (XD) - $24.95
This blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Assyrtiko has a fresh, medium-high to highly aromatic nose with ripe tropical fruit, guava, passion fruit, grassy, and green aromas joined by citrus, white peach, and herbs. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it has pleasing aroma replays and subtle minerality on the flavour profile. With balanced acidity it also has a crunchy mid-palate. Very good length on the citrus and herbally finish. Score: 89 pts

PINK BANG 2021 - PGI Drama, Greece (XD) - $28.95
100% Touriga Nacional from vines planted in 2009. Crafted using the saignée method by Akis who is a fan of the "The Big Bang Theory" sitcom. The medium-high intensity nose is fresh and concentrated with aromas of strawberry, red cherry, and hints of lime citrus. It's fresh with vibrant acidity on the dry palate with lovely aroma replays joined by blueberry notes on the flavour profile. Very good length on the dry, crisp finish. Score: 89 pts

Pink Bang 2021 (89 pts)Wine Art Techni Alipias Red Blend 2018 (89 pts)

WINE ART TECHNI ALIPIAS RED BLEND 2018 - PGI Drama, Greece (#26944) (XD) - $27.95
A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Agiorgitiko, this has an open, highly aromatic, and fragrant nose of dried rose florals, sweet spices, sweet cassis, currant, cherry, and vanillin oak. It's medium-full bodied with smooth, rounded tannins and nice aroma replays surrounded by sweet oak in a slightly commercial profile. Acids are fresh and nicely balanced, while the finish length is very good. Score: 89 pts


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  • Date publishedThursday, July 14, 2022

July 16, 2022 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Mediterranean

LCBO Wine Picks: July 16, 2022 VINTAGES Release
The theme of the upcoming July 16, 2022 LCBO VINTAGES Release is titled "Sun, Sea & Sips" and focuses on wines from the Mediterranean. Also included in the magazine is a list of the next Online Exclusives collection that will be available starting July 28. Wines from this Release will be available at LCBO outlets across Ontario by this Saturday.

We begin with the theme on wines from sunny vineyards along the Mediterranean coast that are synonymous with summertime sipping. Of the eighteen wines featured in the theme, six are included among my top wine picks. Starting on the eastern side in Greece is an Assyrtiko from the Florina appellation in the hills of Amyndeon. Moving westward into Italy are a pair of lovely single varietal red wines from the island of Sicily made with Nero d'Avola and Frappato. From France, there are a pair of fine dry rosé wines - the one from Provence is a blend of 60% Grenache, 35% Cinsault, and 5% Syrah, while the Tavel from Rhône consists of 39% Grenache Noir, 25% Cinsault, 10% Grenache Blanc, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, and other varieties.

Kir-Yianni Le Nord Assyrtiko 2020

Among my red wine recommendations from the rest of the Release, the lovely GSM blend from Australia consists of 59% Grenache, 22% Mourvèdre, and 19% Syrah, while the Roussillon red is primarily Grenache with Syrah and Carignan in support. The rest of the reds are all single varietal wines. The Morgon from Beaujolais is made with Gamay, while the Beaune from Burgundy is Pinot Noir. There's also a pair of lovely Malbec wines from Argentina, and from Australia there is a Shiraz and a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Torbreck Old Vines Grenache / Shiraz / Mourvèdre 2018 (91 pts)Salentein Reserve Malbec 2019 (90+ pts)

Laurent Gauthier Grand Cras Vieilles Vignes Morgon 2019

My white wine picks from the rest of the Release are all single varietal wines. From France, there is a lovely Muscadet from Loire that is made with the Melon de Bourgogne grape, while the white wine from Burgundy is made with Aligoté. For Sauvignon Blanc wine lovers, there is a Sancerre from Loire, as well as a Sauvignon Blanc from the Awatere Valley in Marlborough. Other dry white wines include an excellent Assyrtiko from Santorini, a Chenin Blanc from South Africa, as well as a pair of Chardonnay wines from Niagara. If you enjoy sweeter wines, grab the Riesling from Mosel.

Domaine La Haute Févrie Sur Lie Muscadet Sèvre et Maine 2020 (90+ pts)Eradus Sauvignon Blanc 2021 (89 pts)

Among my pink wine recommendations, the rosé from Niagara is a blend of 46% Pinot Noir, 35% Pinot Gris, and 19% Gamay, while the version from Tuscany consists of Sangiovese and Merlot. Among my pink sparkling wine picks, the wine from Provence is crafted with Syrah and Grenache, while the bubbly from South Africa is a blend of 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay.

Rivarose Brut Prestige Sparkling Rosé (89 pts)

Enjoy my wine recommendations from this Release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

  • SALENTEIN RESERVE MALBEC 2019 - Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#640854) (XD) - $17.95  90+ pts  wine review
  • COLAB & BLOOM SHIRAZ 2019 - McLaren Vale, South Australia (#16043) (XD) - $19.95
  • LAURENT GAUTHIER GRAND CRAS VIEILLES VIGNES MORGON 2019 - AC, Beaujolais, France (#279059) (XD) - $19.95  review coming soon...
  • CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES GRENACHE / SYRAH / CARIGNAN 2019 - AP Côtes du Roussillon-Villages, Midi, France (#119354) (D) - $19.95
  • DANDELION PRIDE OF THE FLEURIEU CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2019 - Fleurieu, South Australia (#23778) (XD) - $21.95
  • PLANETA FRAPPATO VITTORIA 2019 - DOC, Sicily, Italy (#508655) (XD) - $22.95
  • TORBRECK OLD VINES GRENACHE / SHIRAZ / MOURVÈDRE 2018 - Barossa Valley, South Australia (#10223) (XD) - $24.95  91 pts  wine review
  • FEUDO MONTONI LAGNUSA NERO D'AVOLA 2019 - DOC Sicilia, Italy (#523738) (XD) - $24.95
  • CATENA LUNLUNTA OLD VINES APPELLATION MALBEC 2019 - Mendoza, Argentina (#11769) (XD) - $24.95
  • ARNOUX PÈRE & FILS LES BEAUMONTS CHOREY-LÈS-BEAUNE 2020 - AC, Burgundy, France (#557785) (XD) - $39.95

White Wine:

  • DOMAINE LA HAUTE FÉVRIE SUR LIE MUSCADET SÈVRE ET MAINE 2020 - AC, Loire, France (#390625) (XD) - $15.95  90+ pts  wine review
  • PROSPER MAUFOUX BOURGOGNE ALIGOTÉ 2020 - AC, Burgundy, France (#23984) (XD) - $17.95
  • KIR-YIANNI LE NORD ASSYRTIKO 2020 - Vegan, IGP Florina, Greece (#25707) (XD) - $18.95  review coming soon...
  • ERADUS SAUVIGNON BLANC 2021 - Awatere Valley, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#225557) (XD) - $19.95  89 pts  wine review
  • MULLINEUX KLOOF STREET CHENIN BLANC 2021 - WO Swartland, South Africa (#21111) (XD) - $19.95
  • BACHELDER L'ARDOISE NIAGARA CHARDONNAY 2019 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#302083) (XD) - $24.95
  • CLOSSON CHASE THE BROCK CHARDONNAY 2019 - VQA Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada (#20899) (XD) - $25.00
  • CHÂTEAU DE SANCERRE SANCERRE 2020 - Sustainable, AC, Loire, France (#340893) (XD) - $29.95
  • MAX FERD. RICHTER ELISENBERGER RIESLING SPÄTLESE 2019 - Qualitätswein, Mosel, Germany (#25712) (S) - $29.95
  • ARGYROS ASSYRTIKO 2020 - PDO Santorini, Greece (#387365) (XD) - $44.95

Rosé Wine:

  • FIELDING ROSÉ 2021 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#53421) (XD) - $17.95
  • RICASOLI ALBIA ROSÉ 2021 - IGT Toscana, Italy (#556266) (XD) - $18.95
  • VILLA AIX EN PROVENCE ROSÉ 2021 - AP Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, France (#668426) (XD) - $20.95
  • DOMAINE MABY LA FORCADIÈRE TAVEL ROSÉ 2021 - AC, Rhône, France (#701318) (XD) - $20.95

Sparkling Wine:

  • RIVAROSE BRUT PRESTIGE SPARKLING ROSÉ - Salon de Provence, IGP Mediterranean, Provence, France (#515288) (D) - $19.95  89 pts  wine review
  • GRAHAM BECK MÉTHODE CAP CLASSIQUE BRUT SPARKLING ROSÉ PINOT NOIR / CHARDONNAY - Traditional method, WO Western Cape, South Africa (#175588) (XD) - $22.95


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  • Date publishedSaturday, September 26, 2020

Lafazanis Geometria Moschofilero 2018 (Greece) - Wine Review

wine review is this lovely white wine from Greece that arrived in LCBO VINTAGES on . It is widely available at LCBO outlets across Ontario, as well as available online for delivery to store or home delivery.

It is produced by Lafazanis Winery, a producer whose roots go back to 1946, when Vassilis Lafazanis started making wine in Piraeus, a port city in Attica, Greece. In 1960, the Lafazanis family built its first family-owned winery in Magoula (Attica), some distance northwest of Piraeus. In 1985, the second generation of the family acquired an education in oenology and had a vision which helped pave the way to create a high-quality, state-of-the-art winemaking facility. In 1993, Spyros Lafazanis decided to move the winery to Nemea, a region he grew to love as a young oenologist, to cultivate the native grapes of Greece and produce superb quality wines.

Today, 80% of the approximately 4 million litres of Lafazanis' wine production is consumed locally. They have more than 10 hectares of their own vines, but also work in co-operation with 300 winegrowers. The vision is to produce high quality wines enthusiastically and environmentally responsibly, evolving to set the bar higher and higher over the time.

If you know me, you already know that I love this grape. Moschofilero (pronounced mow-sko-FEEL-err-oh) is a grape variety native to Greece that has existed in various iterations since ancient times. It's popularity grew in the 1970's and 1980's when producers studied the varietal more closely and crafted elegant, terroir-driven Moschofilero wines. The grape has a rather high degree of difficulty to grow because of its location and cultivation conditions, but the results are lovely when everything lines up. Moschofilero is typically grown in the misty, mountainous vineyards of the Peloponnese region of Mantinia, in central Greece. It is a pink-skinned grape and produces lively and floral white wines such as this expression from Lafazanis.

Lafazanis Geometria Moschofilero 2018 (90 pts)

Tasting Note:

LAFAZANIS GEOMETRIA MOSCHOFILERO 2018 - PGI Peloponnese, Greece (#15753) (XD) - $17.95
The inviting nose is fresh and aromatic with floral and peach aromas plus touches of tropical fruit, candied ginger, spice, and citrus. It is medium+ bodied on the slightly oily palate with very good fruit concentration alongside crisp, lively acidity. It's dry with flavours of yellow stone fruit, spice, and lily florals. Nicely textured on the mid-palate with floral, spice, peach, and saline mineral notes lingering on the long, slightly drying finish. Recommended buy. Score: 90 pts

Other wines from the Lafazanis portfolio can be ordered via their Agent - Eurovintage Wines & Spirits.


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  • Date publishedSaturday, December 28, 2019

Nemeion Estate Réserve 2008 (Greece) - Wine Review

For wine review, I opened this lovely Agiorgitiko from Greece. I discovered this red wine at a Greek wine tasting event in May 2017 and found out that it was available for purchase at the Greece Destination Collection Store located on Danforth Avenue (in Toronto). On top of that, I found out that it was currently on promotion for under $17. On the after that tasting, I rushed over to The Danforth and picked up a bottle.

I would think this bottle would be long gone from shelves, however, I do see it listed on the LCBO website for $22. If you're in Greektown, you might want to pop-in to see if they have any bottles. Alternatively, you can reach out to the agent Intra Vino as they also have this delicious red wine from Greece listed on their website.

Nemeion Estate Réserve 2008 (90 pts)

Tasting Note:

NEMEION ESTATE RÉSERVE 2008 - Nemea, Greece (#234624) (XD) - $16.90
Hand-harvested 100% Agiorgitiko grown on limestone soils with high copper content. It was aged for two years in French oak barrels, followed by another year in bottle prior to release. Fresh, medium-high intensity, dark fruited scented aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, and black currant mingle with limestone mineral, earth, and woody notes. It is medium-full bodied on the palate with stewed and slightly dried berry flavours plus fig, red cherry, smoke, savoury, earthy, and spice notes with a hint of florality. It's supported by succulent acids and refined, slightly chalky tannins that are still quite well structured. Earthy, mineral, dried cherry, and fig notes linger on the long finish, with excellent length. Should continue to drink well over the next 4-5 years. Score: 90 pts


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  • Date publishedFriday, May 17, 2019

Wines from Santorini Volcanic Terroir

Santorini Volcanic Terroir
In , I was invited to a media luncheon featuring the wines of Santorini, Greece. The luncheon and tasting was hosted and led by Steve Kriaris, owner of Kolonaki Group, and Elias Karkabasis, owner and Sommelier of Pane Vino Trattoria & Wine Bar in Lindsay, Ontario. The venue was VOLOS, a fine Greek restaurant in the heart of downtown Toronto, and a place I realized upon arriving that I had dined here a few years ago with my wife.

Winemaking began in Santorini in 3500 BC, more than 5,000 thousand years ago. In the classic Greek era, the island was called Thera, while today is officially called Thira. The massive volcanic eruption of 1600 BC ultimately created island's caldera and shape as it is today. This explosion left behind a mixture of volcanic ash, pumice stone and pieces of solidified lava and sand, which together make up the soil of Santorini. This soil has little to no organic matter, but is rich in essential minerals, except potassium, thus creating wines with a naturally low pH level and high acidity. All of these factors contribute to creating agricultural products with a distinct profile.

Wines grown on volcanic soils also travel well. As such, when the Italians discovered Santorini in 1200 AD, they began trading wines from the island in amphoras. The wine that was traded the most was the delectably sweet Vinsanto dessert wine and it was exported throughout the Mediterranean and Europe. It was also sent back home to the Pope in Italy - a practice that still occurs today as The Pope receives the oldest and some of the finest Vinsanto directly from Santorini.

Most of the wine production on Santorini consists of white wines and dessert wines. Assyrtiko is the main white grape grown as it thrives in its birthplace, the volcanic island of Santorini. According to appellation rules, Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Santorini white wines must contain a minimum of 75% Assyrtiko. Most often, it is produced as a single varietal wine, but can also contain the varietals Athiri and Aidani. Nykteri wines are also made with Assyrtiko and aged for at least three months is oak barrels. Vinsanto wines are naturally sweet dessert wines made from sun-dried grapes, must contain at least 51% Assyrtiko and be aged for at least 24 months in oak barrels, allowing the wine to develop additional complexities. PDO Santorini wines have great ageing potential due to their unique characteristics that stem from their volcanic origin, as well as their naturally high acidity and minerality.

All of the wines we tasted during the luncheon were from the Union of Santorini Cooperatives, also known as SantoWines. This co-operative was founded in 1947 and today it is the largest winery on the island, representing more than 1,200 active growers of grapes and other agricultural products. SantoWines is committed to safeguarding local traditional cultivations, producing high quality PDO Santorini wines, tomatoes, and fava, as well as promoting sustainable agriculture development.

In addition to the fine wines from Santorini, there were also a couple of other food items from this small and rich volcanic island. Santorini fava beans are scientifically known as "Lathyrus Clymenum L." and have been grown exclusively on the island for more than 3,500 years. These fava beans are considered a superfood as they have amazing nutritional value and contain more than 20% plant-based protein. Traditionally dried and aged under the sun, this legume has a rich, velvety texture and an earthy, slightly sweet taste.

Fava spread

Tomataki dip (top left) with Saganaki

Santorini tomatoes, commonly known as tomataki, are one-of-a-kind as they are dry-farmed on volcanic soils. They have thick skins with a ruffled shape, a concentrated full-body and a naturally sweet taste. Tomataki also have more vitamin C than regular tomatoes and more lycopene (antioxidant) than any other fruit or vegetable. Tomataki also makes a unique tomato paste, which we got to enjoy during lunch. It has a distinctive dark red colour, velvety texture, and a sweet and slightly minerally taste that was great for dipping with bread.

The wines, as well as the unique Santorini food items can all be purchased through Kolonaki Group. You can also purchase these wines at the LCBO Greece Destination outlet at 200 Danforth Avenue (Toronto), while the first Assyrtiko in the list below is widely available across Ontario.

Thank you Kolonaki Group for the invitation and the opportunity to try these delicious Santorini foods and wines. Lunch was delicious and I was pleasantly surprised to find that my lamb dish paired beautifully with these white wines. Wine reviews of these delicious wines are provided below and I trust that you will enjoy them as much as I dd. Opa!

Exohico (phyllo pastry and braised lamb) with Santo Grand Reserve Assyrtiko

Tasting Notes:

SANTO SANTORINI ASSYRTIKO 2017 - PDO Santorini, Greece (#459032) (XD) - $23.30
Medium+ intensity nose is clean with citrus, herbs and minerality with hints of saline. It is medium+ bodied and concentrated on the minerally-textured palate with nicely balanced aromas replays on the flavour profile. It is structured with vibrant acids, and has a long, juicy finish. Score: 89 pts

Santo Santorini Assyrtiko 2017 (89 pts)Santo Nykteri 2017 (90 pts)


SANTO NYKTERI 2017 - PDO Santorini, Greece (XD) - $33.95
A blend of 75% Assrytiko, 15% Athiri, and 10% Aidani that was harvested at night to keep freshness. Spent 3 months in oak barrels. This is ripe with roasted pineapple, stone fruit, ripe apple, pear, citrus, and melon, with subtle oak influence. All of which comes through on the vibrant palate with lively acids. Clean, elegant and nicely balanced with excellent finish length. Score: 90 pts

SANTO GRANDE RESERVE ASSYRTIKO 2016 - PDO Santorini, Greece (#814186) (XD) - $57.95
This Assyrtiko spent 1 year in French oak barrels. The medium-high intensity nose has a subtle oak influence with Meyer lemon citrus, baked apple, butter, and stone fruit aromas and flavours. It is medium-full bodied and structured with vanilla notes appearing on the palate. There is a nice mineral texture to go along with juicy acids. Long on the finish. Score: 91 pts

Santo Grande Reserve Assyrtiko 2016 (91 pts)Santo Vinsanto 2011 (89 pts)

SANTO VINSANTO 2011 - PDO Santorini, Greece (#654722) (S) (500 mL) - $67.95
Sun-dried 85% Assyrtiko and 15% Aidani grapes that spent 3 years in oak barrels. Deep orange-red-brown colour. Offers complex aromas of sweet spice, golden raisin, fig, dates, plum, honeyed, brown sugar and hints of hazelnut. Full-bodied with more raisin, fig, and sweet plum notes on the palate, with very good acidity and flavours lingering on the long finish. Score: 89 pts


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