presented by Mark Luna of Kellogg Selections
Assyrtiko ~ 2022 [James Suckling-91 points, Wine Enthusiast-92 points, Decanter-91 points]
Skouras wines are thrilling, and all show the hallmarks of their creator: intensity, vibrancy and complexity, all expressed with elegance, grace and nobility. In Domaine Skouras, the wines are engraved by the character of their terroir. This white Greek wine grape is indigenous to the island of Santorini.
Grapes: Assyrtiko 100% – ABV 13 %
Tasting notes: Crystal clear color with green highlights. The nose is generous with citrus, apples, mineral and saline notes aromas. Excellent structure, crisp acidity, salinity and minerality. It has a long and complex finish.
Pairings: This is the perfect companion for traditional Greek dishes based on fish or feta. Marries well with fried or grilled squid, octopus, and sardines without overpowering their delicate flavors.
Producer: Domaine Skouras / Appellation: PDO Nemea, Greece (Protected Designation of Origin)
Akakies Sparkling Rose ~ 2023
The winery was created to stimulate an underdeveloped area, which was put on the map thanks to the systematic efforts of the founder of the winery, Yiannis Boutaris. Akakies is a principal red wine grape of the uplands of Naousa, in Macedonia, Greece: Sec sparkling rosé wine, Charmat method of production.
Grapes: Xinomavro 100% – ABV 12%
Tasting notes: Bright rich pink color with persistent bubbles. The nose is intensely fruit-forward with aromas of wild strawberry, white-fleshed cherry, and tomato. The mouth is rich and fruity with vibrant acidity and a delicate touch of sweetness. Delicious, refreshing finish.
Pairings: It can accompany an exceptionally wide range of dishes from Mediterranean to spicy exotic, from subtler flavors to salty dishes, from oily fishes and fresh seafood to light white meats.
Producer: Kir-Yianni / Appellation: PDO Amyndeon, Northern Greece
Kotsifali Syrah ~ 2018
Red-grape variety widely planted around Crete, Kotsifali originates from the word “kotsifi” a little blackbird that shows a particular preference for the variety’s grapes.
Grapes: Kotsifali 60%, Syrah 40% – 13% ABV
Tasting notes: Explosive fruity profile with vanilla and sweet spice undertones. Rich body and beautifully presented velvet-like tannins frame the juicy cherry and plum flavors. The acidity of the Alexakis Kotsifali Syrah blend is fine and works expertly with the smooth alcohol. This delicate balance on the palate and the complexity on the nose make it an age-worthy wine.
Pairings: Perfectly suited for rich meat dishes, casseroles, sausages, and hearty roasts.
Producer: Alexakis / Appellation: Archanes PDO, Heraklion, Crete
Hedgehog Vineyard Xinomavro ~ 2021
Founded in 1997, Alpha Estate is a privately owned vineyard situated in the heart of the viticultural zone of Amyndeon, on a plateau with an altitude of 620-710 m, covering a total area of 220 ha.
Grapes: Xinomavro 100% – ABV 13.91%
Tasting notes: Bright purple-red color. Complex, typical bouquet of small berries red fruits, leather and spices, with hints of ripe blackberry. Full mouth, rounded tannins, balanced acidity and well-integrated wood tones. Long aftertaste with an intense quince aroma.
Pairings: Perfect match with juicy red barbecued meats, spicy sausages, red baked peppers in olive oil, stew rabbit, and light spicy fool body cheeses.
Producer: Alpha Estate / Appellation: Amyndeon, Florina region, Greece
