Gai’a, Santorini (Cyclades, Greece) Assyrtiko 2021

 Assyrtiko is a native Greek grape variety that offers its best renditions from the Aegean island of Santorini.  The Thalassitis Santorini Assyrtiko from Gai’a is a delicious example of this classic Greek grape.  This is a pure and complex white that can be enjoyed now or stashed away in the cellar for a few years.  The island of Santorini is the remnant of a volcano that erupted with cataclysmic force some 3500 years ago, leaving an assemblage of recently-formed volcanic rocks in its wake.  It is difficult to grow grapes here, but the volcanic soils and spare growing conditions yield wines of considerable power and depth.  The 2021 Gai’a Thalassitis Assyrtiko shows aromas of peach, apple, lemon peel, tropical fruit and spice.  The flavors are pure and exciting, with peach, apple, lemon and pineapple fruit flavors underlain by subtle honey and spice tones.  Its rich texture and complexity make this Assyrtiko a truly fine wine.