Greece Rising Up! - The Finale

Written by Evan Saviolidis | 27 September 2010

One last tasting and dinner, this time with three producers from Sterea Ellada (Central Greece)- Hatzimichalis, Papagiannakos and Avantis. My favorites from Hatzimichalis were the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (85), 2006 Merlot (86) and 2008 Kapnias Chardonnay (87). The Papagiannakos Red, an Agiorgitiko/Cabernet Sauvignon blend scored 87 and their pure Cabernet Sauvignon, a solid 90 points. As for Avantis, the ‘M’ Malagousia (89) was singing with flowers, spice, honey, orange and peaches. The ‘M’  Mavrokoudora, a rare tamer clone of Mandilaria garnered 88 points, and the 2007 Collection Syrah, 92. The latter was the best rendition of the grape I had tasted over the previous week. Dinner was full bore traditional, and yes, one last shot of Tsipouro for the road.

Final Thoughts
So where does Greece stand? Trying to pigeon hole Greek wine styles into the typical new world or old categories is nigh impossible. Yes, modern techniques are about, but with a myriad of indigenous grapes, a singular product is available to the consumer.

If there is one grape that is destined to become the calling card of Greece in the decade ahead, it is Santorini’s Assyrtiko. In terms of a personal discovery, it was Malagousia, for its Alsatian qualities. When looking at the French cépages, Syrah is in a league of its own. In the end, the best reds might even be the ones that are Greco-Franco blends.

Ultimately, whatever your personal preference, these wines are at their best with food and friends, and after all, that is what Greek culture is all about.  
To learn more please visit www.allaboutgreekwine.com.

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