Known for diverse and challenging terroirs which produce a spectacular variety of grapes, Greece has long been under-the-radar as a wine destination. Yet, with ample sun, minimal rain and diverse geography, conditions here are ideal for producing very affordable, high quality wines.
Also, Greek wines made from local grapes pair really well with many different types of food. So, if you haven't done so before, it really is time to go Greek!
My August 'Tipple of the Month' was Nemea Winery Signature Collection Assyrtiko 2021. So this month, rather than going for the obvious 'heavy' red, I've decided to go slightly off-piste with a lighter style of red wine, perfect for spicy food on a cold night.
Nemea is the largest viticultural zone in Greece
Launched in 1985 and working with 198 hectares of vineyards, Nemea Winery is the biggest in the region and ranks among the 10 biggest wineries in Greece. The company recently launched a Varietals Collection to compliment its Signature Collection. The wines have been chosen for their quality and are designed to showcase the unique characteristics of local grape varieties.
Nemea is home to one of the finest indigenous red varieties, Agiorgitiko. Vineyards are found on semi-mountainous and mountainous terrains, either on the slopes or on the formed plateaus and valleys.
Wine produced from the Agiorgitiko grape has been known as Nemeatiko since the middle of the 19th century. Agiorgitiko is considered an indigenous variety of Nemea with deep roots in time and it was not cultivated in any other region of Greece or in another foreign country up until 15 years ago.
Agiorgitiko ripens mid-to-late September. This versatile grape produces fresh, deep red-coloured, highly aromatic wines with good ageing potential that may be dry, sweet or semi-sweet. Typical characteristics include ripe strawberry and other red fruit notes, blackcurrants and caramel. Aged wines can have aromas of jam or dried fruits such as fig, plum or raisin. Tannins are soft and evolve over time.
This wine is 100% Agiorgitiko from selected vineyards in Nemea with limestone soils. It has been aged for six months in stainless steel tanks and is ideally served at 16°-18°C. ABV is 12.5%.
Appearance: Deep red colour.
Nose: Notes of cherry, a touch of raspberry compote and a hint of cocoa powder.
Palate: Dry, light and very quaffable with ripe red cherry, sour cherry, red berries, a touch of bitter chocolate and some spice that builds gently on to the finish.
Food match: Versatile with options to pair with spicy dishes, including chick pea curries, chicken Katsu curry and Chinese cuisine, as well as pizzas and salads.
You can buy Nemea Winery Varietals Collection Agiorgitiko 2021 for only £8.99 from Bites of Greece. The full Signature and Varietals collections can be found here.
