Exploring Greece Through the Glass: Three Affordable Wines That Will Take You There

Sitting on a white-walled terrace soaking up the sun while overlooking an ocean horizon and sipping tradition-steeped wine in Greece is a dream just beyond the fingertips of most. But, what if for just under $45CAD, you could have three bottles of Greek wine that exemplify the best of this country’s wine history?

These three bottles below are not only affordable, but exhibit three unique wine styles that go hand in hand with Greek wine culture. So, grab some souvlaki or other Greek fare, some friends, and these three wallet-friendly wines for a Greek wine night that will transport you to the next best thing from a Greek getaway!

Xinomavro

Greece has over 300 indigenous grape varieties, but Xinomavro is their signature red grape. Adored for its fresh, high-acidity and sturdy tannin structure, it bodes well for aging. Xinomavro does best from Northern regions of Greece like Naoussa and Amyndeo.

Try:

Kir-Yianni Cuvée Villages Xinomavro 2021, $18.00

This is a vegan wine from the Naoussa PDO of Greece, a region well-known for its high-quality Xinomavro. An elegant Xinomavro with bright red cherry, goji berry and wildflower notes on the nose and palate. Mid-weight with gentle, refreshing acidity and a fine-tannic squeeze in the finish.

Xinomavro has the structure to stand up to red meat and sharp flavours.

Pair it with: Moussaka, Greek olives and aged cheese, or gyros.

Malagouzia

Malagouzia is one of Greece’s white wines that is on the rise for its desirable medium-bodied profile, refreshing acidity, and aromatic blend of citrus and stone fruit and floral notes.

While its grown throughout the country, it is widely grown in the Nemea region of the Peloponnese where the terroir best supports the grape.

Try:

Lionheart Malagouzia 2023, $14.95

A pure and refreshing Malagousia from the Peloponnese region of Greece. Introducing itself with fragrant apricot and sea breeze aromas. The palate is medium bodied and elegant, with notes of peach and lemon riding a wave of electric acidity. Encompassing minerality and saline are featured on a very persistent finish.

A tribute to the Nemean Lion, it "embodies the bravery and fortitude required to overcome life's challenges.”

Malagouzia has appetizing acidity that cuts nicely through feta and oily meats. The flavours and characteristics lend it to pairing with a wide array of fish dishes.

Pair it with: Greek salad, fish, or pork souvlaki.

Retsina

Retsina is a traditional Greek white wine completely unique to the region. It’s made by seeping pine gum in to the wine during fermentation, infusing it with herbal and pine notes giving it a distinct flavour. Historically, pine gum was used to seal wine containers, and today, the traditional pine flavours continue to be carried along with the wine style.

Savatiano, Assyrtiko, or Roditis are the most common grapes used for this custom style that is commonly associated with Attica and the Peloponnese regions of Greece.

Try:

Kechris Kechribari Retsina, $9.60

A spritely, radiant Retsina that offers ongoing spruce, rosemary and lime aromas and flavours. The palate exhibits a silky and delicate oily viscosity lifted with crisp, juicy acidity. Refreshing, with nature-infused elements persisting on a long, dry finish. This is something special to sip on its own but would also make a fabulous low-alcohol cocktail base. Serve chilled.

Retsina’s distinguished character will level up Greek dishes that contain herb seasoning, or proteins that play well with herbs like pork, poultry, and seafood.

Pair it with: Grilled pork, chicken, octopus, or mussels.

Happy travels! Yamas!

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