Neat Thoughts About Food, Wine, Travel & More
I enjoyed this delicious Greek wine at Kellari Taverna in Manhattan with perfectly grilled octopus.
In the glass, this wine is a lovely golden color. On the nose, this Assyrtiko offer clean, citrusy aromas. In the mouth, it’s crisp with tropical fruit and Meyer lemon flavors. Well balanced wine that’s perfect for summer grilling but can hold up to heartier dishes.
Pairings: Seafood, grilled fish.
Style: White
Grape Type(s): Assyrtiko
Region: Santorini, Greece
Around $20
I enjoy Greek wines and picked up this little number, which is easy to find, to pair with sashimi and rolls I was having from the local sushi restaurant this weekend.
In the glass, this Greek wine is a medium honey yellow – really pretty. On the nose, the 2010 Boutari Santorini Assyrtiko is lemony and peachy. In the mouth, it is rich, luscious, with lots of juicy apple notes yet there is a nice level of acidity and crispness on the finish.
This versatile wine would pair well with many things, especially grilled seafood, chicken or pork.
Pairings: Raw oysters, clams or mussels. Grilled octopus or white-flesh fish.
Style: White
Grape Type(s): Assyrtiko
Region: Santorini, Greece
Around $19
Found this wine on a by-the-glass wine list and had to try it on the first warm day of Spring in New York. In the glass, it’s much darker and brighter than you’d expect from a rose, more strawberry than the muted pink I typically see. On the nose, the strawberry continues with sweet and intense aromas. On the palate, it’s a bit of a different story. Although this Greek wine from the region of Nemea offers a bit of sweetness, it’s the pop of acidity that gives the ripe, spicy cherry flavors its brightness and freshness.
Not only would this Greek rose made from the Agiorgitiko grape be perfect for sipping on a warm sunny day, its intensity would hold up well to grilled fish, roasted vegetables or even some BBQ chicken or ribs.
Around $14.
First tasted this wine at an event hosted by Wines of Greece in Manhattan where I got to sample over 40 fine Greek wines. Lucky for me, the
'07 Boutari Moschofilero
2007 Boutari Moschofilero is pretty widely available in my neck of the woods in New Jersey, so I get to enjoy it often.
Think of this wine as a Pinot Grigio / Sauvignon Blanc but with tons of body and flavor. It’s light enough to be enjoyed all Summer long, but offers enough body and richness to pair with spicy foods during the cooler months. I find lots of juicy lemons with ripe honeyed melons and floral undertones with some nice acidity.
At a recent dinner party, I paired it with grilled octopus and Greek yogurt-marinated chicken kabobs and it was super.
At around $15 a bottle, this Greek wine from the Peloponnesos region is a great buy and value.
I had the pleasure of attending the New Wines of Greece in Manhattan this week and found the event fantastic. First – the people – exhibiting wineries, event coordinators and the catering staff were passionate about their destination and products, second – the wines I sampled were pretty outstanding, third – my favorite NYC chef and cookbook author, Michael Psilakis, provided the amazing food.
Here are some of the wines I sampled that were gems:
As far as food was concerned, Michael Psilakis didn’t cut any corners. The ‘catering’ food he brought to this event was what he serves at his restaurant. My favorite dish from Psilakis’ Kefi, grilled octopus, was served on huge platters. Michael ensured that platters, bowls and dishes were filled to the brim and stayed fresh, and even served when a crowd amassed at certain stations.
Great event all around.
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