The origins of winemaking in Greece date back to 6,500 years ago and there is dated evidence which suggests that Greece is the home of the second oldest known wine in the world and crushed the first grapes in the world. The oldest wine press ever found was discovered in the ruins of Vathypetro, a village near Heraklion in Crete. Historians estimate that this press dates back to 2500 BC. Greece is one of the oldest wine regions in the world and, today, is one of the top wine regions in Europe.

Ancient Greeks always drank their wine diluted with water, which distinguishes them from the so-called "barbarians" who drank their wine directly. The reason the ancient Greeks diluted their wine was because they wanted to drink all night during their symposia, but not to get drunk.

We will sample:

KALDERA ASSYRTIKO WHITE 2021, Santorini, Greece — Assyrtiko is perhaps the best-known quality Greek white-wine grape variety. It can retain acidity in hot growing conditions, and this ability has seen its popularity spread from its native Santorini to other parts of Greece. It has a distinctive mineral character and ages well. This wine is balanced and light-bodied. Aromas include ripe pineapple, lemon and lime, and the palate has a long, racy finish. Rating: 90, Wine Enthusiast. 13% ABV. $34/$11

LOFOS XINOMAVRO ROSE 2021 — Made from Greece's red Xinomavro grape, this salmon-colored rose hails from Siatista, a village built on the slope of Mount Velia in Western Macedonia. Very subtle on the nose, but the easy-drinking palate has notes of mandarins, pineapple and lemon juice and zest, followed by a short, tart finish. Rating: 88, Wine Enthusiast.. 13% ABV. $17.99/6.50

SOFOS AGIORGITIKO RED 2021 — Sofos translates to “wise” in Greek, which aptly represents the ancient tradition of winemaking in Peloponnese that has been passed on by generations for millennia. The local Agiorgitiko grape — Greece’s most famous and widely planted red varietal –- gives Sofos a beautiful bouquet of cherries and spice. This red-purple wine has a fruit-forward, medium bodied palate, ripe with flavors of cherry, pomegranate and a hints of licorice and wild mint. It is easy-going with smooth, soft tannins and a fruity finish. $17.99/$6.50

See you Friday!