'Assyrtiko Barrique' Ktima Ligas 2019

The Greek white wine 'Assyrtiko Barrique' by Ktima Ligas represents a rich and complex interpretation of the Assyrtiko grape variety, the result of an artisanal production philosophy. The label depicts Maria Callas, the famous soprano of Greek origin who became one of the greatest talents of her time after World War II. In the same way as Maria, who was successful outside the borders of her own country, first in the United States and later in Italy, the Ktima Ligas winery wants to show how Assyrtiko has also found a place of consecration outside its home area. Indeed, while the estate is located in Greek Macedonia, in the far north of the country, this grape variety originates from the island of Santorini in southern Greece.
Ktima Ligas 'Assyrtiko Barrique' is derived from only Assyrtiko grapes grown in the Pella area on soils consisting mainly of clay, sand and limestone, following organic farming principles. Manual harvesting of the grapes is followed by soft pressing and spontaneous alcoholic fermentation operated exclusively by indigenous yeasts. The subsequent maturation period, which lasts 8-12 months, takes place in oak barrels of several passages and the wine is finally bottled without undergoing any clarification or filtration.
In the glass, Ktima Ligas 'Assyrtiko Barrique' exhibits a brilliant straw yellow colour with golden hues. The olfactory range is seductive and varied in its aromas of fresh flowers, citrus peel, honey and white pepper that blend with hints of bakery and flint. The taste is dry, fresh and savoury, with excellent smoothness and a definite saline vein. An Assyrtiko of remarkable longevity that lends itself well to accompany structured seafood dishes or elaborate first courses.