Why try Greek wine

Ceraon was the ancient Greek demigod of wine mixing. He so perfected this skill that he personified the art of serving good wine.

The origins of winemaking in Greece date back to 6,500 years ago and there is dated evidence to suggest that Greece even produced the second oldest known wine in the world and the first evidence of crushed grapes in the world.

In ancient times, Greek wine was particularly popular in Italy during the Roman Empire. In the Middle Ages, wines exported from Crete, Monemvasia and other Greek ports fetched high prices in northern Europe.

It is also interesting to note that the ancient Greeks always drank wine diluted with water, which distinguished them from the so-called barbarians who drank wine straight. The reason the ancient Greeks diluted their wine was because they wanted to drink all night during their symposia, but not get drunk.

In addition, ancient recipes of the father of medicine Hippocrates have been found, which prove how important and sacred wine was for the Greeks. In these prescriptions, Hippocrates advised his patients to consume a tablespoon of wine a day as a remedy.

What to pair Ceraon wine with

• Try it in combination with Greek olives or olive tapenades ACAIA and crackers for a great tapas evening.
• Have a glass with lighter meals such as salads with extra virgin olive oils ACAIA or OOTOPIA combined with Redmond RealSalt sea salt
• Together with Chocolat Madagascar chocolate, it makes an absolutely unique gift for any occasion or as a sincere thank you.

Muscat - history

Muscat is one of the most famous grapes in terms of taste and aroma. It is a variety with many species and uses. Sometimes sparkling, sometimes sweet, it takes many forms and offers a wide range of flavours.

It is a white grape variety of Greek origin, found in many areas along the Mediterranean coast. It is typically Mediterranean, but has adapted to other areas that are relatively warm and sunny.

It is also a plural variety that has evolved considerably and has many different varieties around the world. It produces a wide variety of wines, whether white, red or rosé.

Its name varies according to the country in which it is found: Moscatel de Grano Menudo (Spain), Moscatel Galego Branco (Portugal), Moscato bianco (Italy), Moschato aspro (Cyprus, Greece).

Muscat - properties

Aroma and taste

The main aromas of Muscat wines are orange, brown sugar, barley sugar and raisins. There are also aromas of white fruit and roses. According to many experts, it is one of the most easily recognizable grape varieties on the nose, thanks to its characteristic aromas.

When it comes to food and wine pairing, sweet Muscats are mainly served as aperitifs or with foie gras and desserts. As for dry Muscats, they go well with asparagus or seafood.

Muscat wines are usually consumed relatively young. Due to their low acidity, they do not have much potential for aging. White wines made from Muscat do not need to be opened before tasting, they are quite floral and should be enjoyed relatively young. On the other hand, red wines made from Muscat may benefit from a little aeration before serving to develop their aromas before tasting.

Grapes

On the vine, it can be recognised by the medium-sized berries, which are juicy, sweet and firm. The variety has early budding and maturity in the second season. It is a rather fragile variety that is afraid of frost and mould.

All varieties of Muscat and their different vinifications for sweet, dry or sparkling wines are characterised by a "muscat" aroma. This aroma comes from natural substances called terpenes (linalool, nerol, geraniol, terpineol).

Roditis - history

A variety of pinkish grapes that originated in Greece. The name is derived from the island of Rhodes (not from the reddish berries). Before the outbreak of phylloxera, this variety was highly valued in Greek winemaking for its ability to ripen late and maintain its acidity in the hot climate of the Peloponnese and Thessaly.

Roditis - properties

Aroma and taste

• The typical aroma of these wines is reminiscent of apples, pears and melons, often with a little acidity and a hint of citrus.
• Roditis-based wines are not meant to be aged and most should be enjoyed young.
• These wines are particularly suitable for appetizers, fish, chicken and lighter dishes such as salads, pasta, couscous, etc.

Grapes

The pinkish 'Rhodes' grape is a valuable variety because it retains its varietal character and acidity when grown in the warmer areas of central and southern Greece.

With cultivation (often at high altitudes) and careful, relatively protective production methods, Roditis is delicately aromatic, with a broad texture and elegant flavour.

Today's premium Roditis wines have bright, lemony or - depending on the region - mineral aromas, light to medium body and refreshing acidity, elements that give the wines a "European" patina and great flexibility on the table.