Assyrtiko

Assyrtiko (Ασύρτικο in Greek) is one of Greece’s finest multi-purpose white grape varieties. It was first cultivated on the island of Santorini, where it has developed a unique character producing excellent Appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) wines. Assyrtiko has the ability to maintain its acidity as it matures. It is a generally a dry wine that has citrus aromas mixed with an earthy, mineral aftertaste due to the volcanic soil of Santorini. Assyrtiko grapes clusters are large, with transparent yellow-gold skin and juicy flesh. Throughout Greece, the average age of the vines is 70 years with many vines dating back 150 years or more. Assyrtiko has so far shown resistance to Phylloxera which has consequently meant that the vines haven't needed to be replaced by phylloxera-resistant rootstock. In the last 25 years Assyrtiko has been planted throughout Greece including Macedonia and Attica. In these areas it has a milder and more fruity character.
Fits with fit sea fruits and fish.

Some labels: Thalassitis by Gaia Oinopoiitiki, Vivlia Hora by Vivlia Hora