Last Wednesday evening I attended a Greek wine tasting, hosted by fellow wino friend, Roddy (he’s the friendly looking man in the above photo). The Ancient Greeks brought wine to much of the Mediterranean, so they’ve been practicing for quite a long time now. Rather than write about these in the order of tasting, I’ve grouped them by producer. You can buy all the following wines from your local Oddbins.
Ktima Kosta Lazaridi “Amethystos” Range
Kostas Lazaridis opened his winery in Adriana, Drama in 1992. Starting with a mere 10 hectares under vine he now has over 200 and top-notch modern winemaking facilities have been installed. The White (2005) is a Sauvignon/Semillon mix with a dash of native Assyrtiko. It has a strong aroma of cat’s pee (“Some people like that” said Roddy) . Moggy’s toilet aside, there’s lashings of gooseberries and green fruit flavours. Very refreshing… just hold your nose. The Rosé (2007) is very full-bodied and luscious, full of strawberries and cream. It proved to be a favourite amoung tasters. Finally, the Red (2004), a Bordeaux blend with a touch of local Limnio, was slightly unbalanced for me. There were lovely notes of nuts and sweet forest fruit on the nose, but there was a bit of a spirity kick on the palate.
Mediterra
The Xerolithia 2006 (100% Vilana) had honeyed notes of peach and mango, with palate refreshing splashes of citrus. A great buy! The Mirambelo 2005 (Kotsifali and Madilaria) was quite closed on the night, but this wine is always better the day after you open it. Earthy vegetal tones, with chocolate and savoury spice. Perfect with tomato based dishes.
Gaia
Gaia was founded in 1994 and is now one of the most famous Greek wine estates. They are particularly well known for their work with the Agiorgitiko grape.
Notios White (Moschofilero and Roditis blend) was very dry and fairly neutral. It reminded people of some Italian white wines. Notios Red (100% Agiorgitiko) was much more interesting. Soft bramble fruit, dusty cherries, gunflint and some jumpy acidity. Last, but by no means least, Gaia Estate 2003 (100% Agiorgitiko). What a stunner! Firm cassis flavours with well integrated vanilla and cedar notes, and a touch of spice on the very long finish. On a blind tasting of Gaia Estate and Cru Bourgois Bordeaux, Chateau Poujeaux, from Moulis-en-Medoc, the Greek wine won! It’s half the price of the Bordeaux and will age nicely too. I have some ageing, so ask me in 10 years if it’s still tasting marvellous.
