Region: Greece, Santorini

Grape variety: Assyrtiko

Background: The Estate Argyros’ construal of an old, distinctive Santorinian style. A very strict selection of very old Assyrtiko vineyards, at least 150 year old, in Pyrgos and Megalochori, harvested at deep ripeness, usually twenty days after the main picking date. Fermented, partially uninoculated, in French oak barriques, at ambient temperatures and aged for twelve months in French oak barriques on fine lees and then approximately twelve additional months in stainless steel, again on fine lees. A wine of imposing proportions, of power but showing no hint of roughness. It needs several years in bottle to grow out of its youth and will unfurl for more than fifteen years.

Tasting notes: Golden yellow colour in the glass. In the aromatic characteristics we find citrus, stone and green fruits, sage, charming aromas of flint stone and notes of minerality, with nuts to follow. On the palate it is rich and complex, with the minerality and a slight saltiness being evident throughout. The body is full, with a characteristic sharp acidity and a persistent aftertaste that lasts.

Stunning expression of Santorini, where its aroma, although still quite fresh, is at the same time elegant and complex, with fresh citrus fruits, citrus peel, ripe white fruits and aromas that resemble stone and betray the terroir. Its taste is rich, with the characteristic sharp acidity and long aftertaste where it leaves a beautiful sense of saltiness.

Awards: 95 Points - Tim Atkins: "A remarkably broad, complex, persistent, and yet very refined nose. The aromatic profile is typical of Argyros: there is the combination of lemon, lime, and salt, promising high but elegantly rendered acidity. But there is also a kernel of sweeter aromas in the background, characteristic of traditional Nykteri: mandarin, orange peel, and bergamot. The palate is a similarly impressive balancing act between tradition and modernity. The fullness and heft of Nykteri is delivered here via a clean, almost pristine texture, while the sweetness takes a back seat to some bracing, vitalising Assyrtiko acidity. And as an aside, I don’t think I have ever encountered a 15% wine that feels so light"