Ktima Erithrou Rodou – Assyrtiko 2021

Ktima Erithrou Rodou Assyrtiko French Oak 2021, the inaugural vintage from this young Drama-based winery. With yields of just 26 hl/ha from a single hectare, vinification of only the free-run juice, and a mere 1200 bottles produced, the ambition here is clear – and the quality speaks volumes. The winery had already demonstrated its skill with a Malagousia that impressively topped a varietal tasting in its second vintage, so expectations were high for the Assyrtiko as well. Surprisingly fresh on the nose – lime and even green apple greet you immediately. It could fool you into believing it's a Riesling. A slightly chalky, grainy feeling on the palate even confirms this impression. Once the long-lasting acidity makes room, good sweetness and spicy notes from the oak emerge. Unlike the Geraklis Boreas Assyrtiko 2018 from Evaμpelos Gi, which saw a mix of oak types, this one matures exclusively in French oak. But it doesn't become heavy or creamy at all – instead, the combination of oak and alcohol delicately imprints spicy nuances. The winemakers speak of nutmeg; I'd call it clove. Very good length, great complexity. The alcohol is quite high at 13.5%, though Assyrtiko carries alcohol well, and it manifests more as an enchanting sweetness than as heat. Still, I would love to see how the wine would appear with a touch less. A magnificent wine and definitely a very impressive debut vintage that earns 94 points.