My Ph.D. advisor, who is Greek American (born there, raised here), wanted to share some Greek wines while I was in Indiana at the end of June. All I have to say is that based on these wines, there is a good reason why Greek whites in particular have started getting a lot of attention and praise.
Alpha Estate, Axia, Malagouzia, Florina 2011
Exceptional, deep nose, with rich citrus/orange rind, fresh apples, raspberry, nectarine, nuts, and mineral. Indentical notes on the palate, full bodied, with a driving vein of orangey acidity. Rather like an excellent Chablis. Remarkable! Another 5 years easy, possibly a lot more. 3.5 Stars. [6/23/14]
Domaine Sigalas, Assyrtiko, Santorini 2013
Wonderful nose of grapefruit and orchard fruit, with wonderful floral notes, volcanic smokey/earthy mineral notes, and wood smoke. Similar notes on the palate, with wonderful, fresh orchard fruit and guava supported by a vein of grapefruit. Full and rich. Not unlike Sauv Blanc in some ways and Riesling in others. 5 more years. 4 Stars [6/23/14]
Domaine Sigalas, "Barrel," Santorini 2011
This is almost certainly Assyrtiko, but is not indetified as such. Exceptional nose: prominent oak marries perfectly with smokey volcanic mineral, aromatic citrus rind/floral notes, sweet orchard fruit, and guava. Identical notes on the palate, with almost tobacco leaf like notes. Big and penetrating, with wonderful texture. Another 5 years, perhaps longer. 3.5 Stars. [6/23/14]