If Greece has a signature white grape variety, it’s Assyrtiko. It’s primarily found on the picturesque island of Santorini, and it’s difficult to tell where the grape ends and the region begins, as the two are so closely linked. With vines trained in a basket shape to protect against high winds, the grape’s naturally high acidity couples with salinity and smoky minerality from Santorini’s nighttime sea fog and volcanic soil. While searingly refreshing, these Assyrtiko wines also have power, complexity, and aging potential, making them some of the most exciting white wines of the moment.
Our illustrated guide to Assyrtiko from Greece is the jumping-off point that you need in order to dive into this sun-drenched, sea-scrubbed wine.
