My piece for OUT on Greek wines is online now. It was a subject I knew almost nothing about two weeks before I filed the story and so huge thanks go to my friend from Beth von Benz of MVB Consulting who really introduced me to the category and many of the players and Greek winemakers who are doing some pretty magical stuff. I asked Beth for some recommendations for Embury and she was gracious enough to contribute the suggestions below, which pleases me immensely. These are fantastic and approachable summer wines--it's my aim to make greek wines big this summer. Get into it.
1-Thalassitis, Gaia Wines (Santorini) 2011 is the best Greek wine I have tasted this vintage. It’s a pure example of the overused word “terroir” with beautiful defined fruit flavors and zingy lime rind mixed with vibrant acidity in the finish.
If I were to choose one Greek wine, this would be it, hands down in this vintage. A wonderful example of old and new world blending in a balanced style that would appeal to all, especially in the summertime.
2-Robola of Cephalonia, Gentilini 2011
Here is a wine from the Robola grape, grown on the Island of Cephalonia (west side of Greece just below Corfu in the Ionian sea) with the most amazing views of any vineyard I have ever visited! The Gentilini family has long time family roots on this island and Italian heritage, hence the name. This wine is fresh, with flavors of apple and kiwi with hints of almond blossom and citrus in the long refreshing finish. Great sipping aperitif wine on the porch or for a summer BBQ
3-Akakies rose, Kir-Yianni (Amyndeon) 2011
Mouth watering rose made from Xynomavro grapes (pronounced zino-mavro) grown in the northwest of mainland Greece in an area famous to quality rose producing, Amyndeon. This rose is bright pink colored and bold flavors of red berries, watermelon, rhubarb with zesty citrus rind and a bright finish. Vibrant style, refreshing and delicious! Akakies means acacia in Greek, there are many acacia trees in this vineyard.
Beth von Benz of MVB Consulting
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