Assyrtiko wild ferment 2023 (Gaia)

Drink it now, or cellar for up to 5 years. No need to decant it. Launched in 1994 żeby Leon Karatsalos and Yiannis Paraskevopoulos on the Greek island of Santorini, Gaia Wines is a pioneering project that aims to capture the essence of the island's native grapes, mixing traditional methods with the most innovative production techniques. The indigenous Assyrtiko grapes are vinified using the ancient method called "Kouloura" or basket-shaped, a practice that dates back over 3,000 years. The winemakers weave the vine canes in the form of a large basket so that the grapes are protected from the wind. The warm climate allows early ripening. After the soft pressing of the grapes, the must remains in maceration for about 10 hours with the skins, before fermentation. The resulting wine ages for 12 months in small wooden barrels. This typical and exuberant white wine has a shimmering straw yellow color. The nose shows intense aromas of white berries and flowers with vanilla notes coming from the wood aging. The taste is very elegant and mineral, with an almost crunchy texture and excellent acidity. It’s a great wine as an aperitif and as an accompaniment to sea fish, seafood, or marinated vegetables and fresh cheeses.