Wine never ceases to surprise us, especially when we least expect it. Still, to be fair, our extensive wine knowledge is part of the wine spell that makes it happen. Keep following us here and on our website for a magic wine dust that can work for you, too.
On our latest trip to NYC, after we spent a day immersing ourselves in our favorite Metropolitan Museum art pieces, we wanted to toast in one of our go-to Greek restaurants in midtown Manhattan – Anassa Taverna. It has four things we expect from great restaurants: excellent food, attentive service, ambiance, and an inspiring wine list.
We primarily focused on mezze (appetizers), including saganaki (cheese), xtapodi (octopus), tiganites melitzanes (eggplant chips), spanakopita (spinach pie), and more. Naturally, these dishes call for a white wine, and Greece has plenty of native varieties to offer. After all, Greeks are responsible for spreading winemaking tradition throughout the Old World long before French wine became a thing.
Our interest was sparked by the 2024 Alpha Estate Single Vineyard Turtles Malagouzia.
2024 Alpha Estate Single Vineyard Turtles Malagouzia
There are a few unique things about this wine. First, it’s made from 100% Malagouzia grapes, a variety rescued from oblivion not too long ago. Second, it’s a single-vineyard estate, meaning that all the fruit comes from one select vineyard, reflecting the terroir of the place. Together, it makes for a rare wine to try. Considering that we had just come from a museum where we admired one-of-a-kind art, this wine added to an exclusive and rare experience of the day.
So, what did we get in a glass? An intense and lively nose, typical of Malagouzia, featuring rose petals with floral aromas and sweet spices, as well as melon and lyches, with a hint of honeysuckle. Round and mellow on the palate, fat but balanced, high in alcohol with plenty of finesse. Well-structured, evoking aromas reminiscent of rosemary. A richly textured wine with superb length and balance. A classy wine with a long finish and persistent aromas.
2024 Alpha Estate Malagouzia made us fans of this varietal, and it pairs well with mezze. We’ll be on the lookout for it next time we’re having Mediterranean food.
What are your unexpected wine discoveries? Any favorite Greek wines?
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