A question our friends usually ask is which white wine we think is the best. In order to avoid the quibble, we answer "the one you like", as taste is a subjective thing. However, the conversation changes if the word gastronomy pairing to wine and indeed the excellent gastronomy of Chalkidiki
Meet the winery "Akrathos" from Halkidiki.
In the birthplace of Aristotle and 'Akanthian wine', on the eastern slopes of Cholomontas, opposite Mount Athos and the Gulf of Sighiso, are the organic vineyards planted with Greek varieties.
At altitudes ranging from 550 to 700 metres, the vineyards receive the beneficial influence of the midday sea breeze and the cool and moist night breezes from the surrounding mountains, which relieve the plants during the hot summer months. The shallow, sandy-clay soils on shale subsoil ensure low yields.
Thus, the densely planted vineyard stumps produce raw material of exceptional maturity, preserving the acidity and aromas of the grapes, along with a phenolic richness that gives the red wines the possibility of deep ageing.
One wine we loved is the "Assyrtiko 2017". With a northern Greek origin, winking at the Assyrtiko of Santorini.
It comes from a 40-acre vineyard with 8-year-old plants. East-facing, opposite Mount Athos. The vineyards receive the beneficial influence of the meridian sea breeze and the cool and moist night breezes from the surrounding mountains, which relieve the plants during the hot summer months. It is cultivated in sandy-clay soils on shale subsoil. It is then vinified in the traditional white wine-making process and fermented in stainless steel tanks after remaining in contact with the lees for 6 months.
Its taste characteristics are: bright lemon-green colour. Complex aromas of lime, citrus blossom and peach on a background of mineral elements. Generous on the palate with crisp acidity, subtle yeast notes and a long lemony finish.
Pair it from our restaurant menu with the following dishes:
Fish, grilled squid with Lemnos feta cheese and herbs, oysters.
Enjoy it at 10-12°C. The aging potential is 3-5 years.
The second choice from the winery "Akrathos" is the wine "Oros". Half brother, since apart from Assyrtiko the blend includes the most aromatic international variety Sauvignon Blanc.
4 acres of Sauvignon Blanc vineyard together with 40 acres of Assyrtiko with 8 year old plants.
Light lemon color. Complex aromas of bergamot, grapefruit, pear and white flowers combined with mineral and herbal notes. Harmonious and full of freshness on the palate, with lively acidity, fruit purity and a softly mineral finish.
Loves seafood, fish, fried cuttlefish, fried cuttlefish, Melichloro saganaki and Lentil salad with marinated anchovies.
Enjoy at 9-11°C and if you want to drink it later it will stay untouched for 3-5 years.
