🍷Wine of the Week - Athanasiou Winery Assyrtiko 2024 | A Gentle Rebellion in the Land of Agiorgitiko
In Nemea, Greece, where Agiorgitiko reigns supreme, Michalis Athanasiou dares to work with Assyrtiko—and the result is truly distinctive.
🍇 Hand-harvested grapes
🛢 Fermented in stainless steel tanks
⏳ Aged for 5 months on fine lees
On the nose, the wine offers lemon zest, citrus blossoms, jasmine, and delicate tea notes. The palate reveals tropical fruit, vibrant acidity, and a velvety texture—simple, honest, and beautifully balanced.
A Personal Encounter
I first met this wine about seven years ago, at the home of my godfather Vangelis Koukakis, a passionate organic olive oil producer from Argolida. With genuine enthusiasm, he spoke of a new winemaker—a friend from Nemea—and his Assyrtiko.
I was skeptical.
“You mean an A-giorgitiko?” I asked.
“No,” he replied. “An A-ssyrtiko.”
We tasted it on a hot summer midday, accompanied by the boukadoura—the refreshing sea breeze—and a wide array of almost mythical mezes prepared by Vassoula.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Assyrtiko from Athanasiou Winery is subtle yet undeniably present, like a gentle lowering of the sails: it supports the food, preserves balance, and keeps harmony intact.
Food Pairing
This Assyrtiko truly shines with dishes that balance freshness and richness:
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Fish ’n’ chips or cod with garlic cream
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Lemon chicken with feta sauce
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Mussels with celery and cilantro
Is it a vine in winter, or a reversed root on the label? Either way, it perfectly reflects the wine itself: nude, honest, and elegant.