In the ancient world, Greece was once one of the foremost producers of wine. However, in contrast to the country’s important wine heritage, modern Greek wines are only recently reaching the rest of the world. We will taste:

Markou Vineyards Retsina — 100% Savatiano, which is perhaps the most historic variety (dating back 2,500 years) and most planted variety in Greece due to its resistance to draught and disease. Savatiano offers flavors of sweet honeydew, green apple, and lime with tingling acidity, akin to Chablis. When oak-aged, Savatiano delivers lemon curd, wax, cultured cream touched by lemon bread notes and a creamy mid-palate, with a structure and finish similar to White Burgundy. This Retsina is a refreshing, fruity, and dry with mastic and pine overtones and a rich herbaceous character. Well balanced with a long aftertaste and spunky introduction. 12.5% ABV. $18.99/$6.50

Oenops Apla Dry White 2020 — Blend: 60% Malagouzia, 30% Assyrtiko, and 10% Roditis. Celebrated Greek winemaker Nikos Karatzas founded Oenops Wines in 2015; it is the newest winery in the region of Drama, Macedonia. He produces high-quality wines in limited quantities. The vines are 12-45 years old. This white offers notes of tropical fruit on the nose, with a hint of floral and white pepper. Rich with restrained acidity and a lingering fruity finish. 13% ABV. $20.50/$7

Thymiopoulos Vineyards Naoussa 2018 — 100% Xinomavro, which is hailed as “The Barolo of Greece” because the wine can taste strikingly similar to Nebbiolo with dark cherry fruit, licorice, allspice, and occasionally subtle tomato notes. Xinomavro has high tannins and medium-plus acidity. The Thymiopoulos vineyards are situated in the Valley of the Muses, which is east of the ancient site of Delphi. The vines are an average of 45 years old. This area benefits from the cooling winds that blow down from Mount Helicon. The Thymiopoulos family has farmed their land here for several generations according the principals of biodynamics. All wines are fermented without any contact with oak. This red has is aromatic with fresh black fruits and herbs. Complex and balanced. Vibrant acidity and round tannic structure with a long finish. This wine will age nicely! 13.5% ABV. $30.99/$10

See you Friday!