Domaine Sigalas, Santorini (Cyclades, Greece) Assyrtiko 2019

 I eagerly look forward to the annual release of this wine.  Domaine Sigalas’ Santorini Assyrtiko is a legend among Hellenic wines – resetting the expectation of what Greek wines could be.  It is a consistently superb white that ages beautifully but provides a delicious tasting experience even in its youth.  The 2019 vintage continues the string of winemaking successes that propelled Assyrtiko into the wine world’s consciousness.  Because of the spare volcanic soils and harsh growing conditions, many Assyrtiko vineyards are trained low to the ground, in basket form.  This protects from the fierce winds and allows moisture from morning mists to nourish the vines.  Yields are low and the Assyrtiko grapes retain a high acidity.  The result is ageable, richly-textured wines of depth and complexity.  The 2019 Domaine Sigalas Assyrtiko shows scents of Meyer lemon, baked apple, mango and sun-dried herbs.  The flavors are pure and complex, with rich lemon, apple, apricot and tropical fruits underlain by elements of honey and herbs.  The low yields lead to concentration in the wine, with a lovely rich texture underscored by a bracing, crisp acidity.  This wine will develop nicely for several more years in the cellar.