Greece and the broader eastern Mediterranean region are home to a rich wine-making tradition, yet their wines have been slow to gain popularity globally. Focusing mainly on indigenous varietals, Greek wines are often herbaceous, crisp, and lean. We’re always eager to highlight under-appreciated wines, and are excited to feature Greek wines in our March series of wine tastings. Read on, learn all about Greek and Cypriot wines that showcase the region’s incredible native grapes, and taste them for yourself Wednesday March 27 at Hop City West End and Thursday March 28 at Hop City Fayetteville!
Buketo Red $18.99
Buketo comes to us from the Pangeon region in Northern Greece. The winery is a co-op that makes blends from organically grown grapes. Buketo Red, available at both Krog and West End locations, blends Agiorgitiko, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot for a complex, yet easy drinking bottle. The palate shows rich berries, basil, dark cherry, and a sophisticated touch of dark chocolate.
Gai’a Notios $21.99
Gai’a Monograph Assyrtiko $18.99
Nemea is a protected destination of origin for the grape Agioritiko, one of Greece’s most important red varietals. That is why Gai’a Wines chose this region to focus their red wine production. Gai’a Notios, blends Agiortiko with Syrah, adding a rich depth and black pepper spice to the classic palate. Pioneers of the modern Greek wine revolution, Gai’a Estate was established in 1994 in the semi-mountainous Koutsi region of Nemea. Their Monograph Assyrtiko is youthful and fruity, with a bouquet of honeysuckle and citrus that compliments its refreshing acidity on the palate.
Makarounas Spourtiko $24.99
If you are looking to try something truly unique, try a wine from Makarounas Vineyards on the island of Cyprus. The winery is located in an area with a long history of viniculture. This family-owned winery is the only winery on Cyprus making wine solely from their own grapes. Spourtiko is a dry, savory white wine; the palate is mineral forward with notes of green grape skin, citrus zest, dried herbs, and ocean breeze.
Tikveš Belo $15.99
Tikveš Bela Voda $28.99
Tikveš hails from Macedonia, a geographic and former administrative region of Greece. Belo, Macedonian for “white”, is a blend of Riesling, Roussanne, Marsanne, and the indigenous Macedonian grape Smederevka. Expect floral aromas and pronounced acidity with flavors of green apples and white peaches. Bela Voda is a richly fruit-expressive wine from vines grown at an elevation of 300m above sea level on clay-limestone soils. This part of Macedonia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, resulting in darker fruit flavors and a richly textured mid-palate with smooth tannins.
