Alpha Estate — Kaliva 2019

The upscale, oak-aged version of Alpha Estate's Sauvignon Blanc was tasted head-to-head with Ktima Gerovassiliou's Sauvignon Blanc as part of a Greek Sauvignon Blanc tasting – two wines from internationally renowned winemakers who both embrace oak yet create very different wines. With the Alpha Estate, the oak announces itself on the nose a touch more prominently than with the Gerovassiliou, while the exotic fruits are dialed back somewhat. On the palate, there's pronounced acidity, with citrus aromas dominating alongside some green apple. An extra 0.5% alcohol also adds a creaminess that matches the wine's elegance. The finish is long, carrying rather green notes here too – asparagus and rhubarb. All in all, a very well-rounded effort that equally deserves an excellent 93 points. The current 2020 vintage is available for a truly unbelievable bargain at €16.65.