Skoumpris Winery – Savatiano 2021

The variety Savatiano and the production method Retsina are almost synonymous – and often equated with the idea of making cheap wine drinkable with pine resin. But the reputation of Savatiano as a standalone variety is changing, and the Savatiano 2021 from Skoumpris Winery offers a solid introduction to what the grape can do on its own. This 100% Savatiano from PGI Evia leans into floral and fruity aromas, with a decent aftertaste. It earns a very good 85 points. Compared to other Savatiano wines from the same vintage, such as the more herbaceous Mylonas Winery Savatiano 2021 (90 points) or the magnificently complex and elegant Kokotou Estate Savatiano 2021 (93 points), the Skoumpris sits at the entry level – but it does a respectable job of showcasing the variety's potential beyond Retsina.