Tsantali — Rapsani Grand Reserve 2012

Fortunately, the story improves dramatically after the disappointing 2013 standard bottling with the 2012 Grand Reserve (Idika Epilegmenos) from Tsantali in the PDO Rapsani. This wine undergoes an extended maturation: 18 months in barrels, followed by another 18 months in bottle before release. It explodes with dark berry fruit in the glass, underpinned by smoky complexity. While some might find the aromas a touch contrived, the wine's impressive freshness given its age is undeniable. It is without doubt one of the better Greek wines from the 2012 vintage still available on the market. 91 points.