From: Peloponnese, Greece
Blend: 80% Assyrtiko 20% Robola
Taste: On the nose, this intriguing wine reveals a distinct wet stone minerality, intertwined with vibrant aromas of citrus fruits such as citron, fresh lemon, and grapefruit zest. Hints of green apple and white peach add complexity to the bouquet.
Upon tasting, this medium-bodied white wine offers a lively, refreshing palate with flavors of pear, quince, and white nectarine, supported by a backbone of zesty orange peel acidity. The wine's salinity provides a delicate balance, contributing to a lingering, crisp finish with a touch of fresh-cut herbs and white floral notes.
Pairing: The refreshing acidity and citrus-driven flavors of the 2020 Mercouri Kallisto make it an ideal partner for a variety of dishes. Pair this versatile wine with light seafood options such as grilled or poached fish, shrimp scampi, or seared scallops. Poultry served with sweet or creamy sauces will also complement the wine's acidity and minerality. Additionally, the Kallisto pairs well with cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, and a selection of fresh fruits.
For a delightful regional pairing, try the Kallisto alongside classic Greek dishes such as spanakopita, grilled octopus, fried calamari, sardines, or a fresh Greek salad with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. The wine's acidity and salinity will enhance the flavors in these Mediterranean dishes while providing a refreshing contrast to their richness.
Vegetarian dishes are a natural pairing for the 2020 Mercouri Estate Kallisto. Consider serving this white blend with a vibrant Greek-inspired orzo salad with roasted vegetables, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Grilled or fried halloumi, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), or a vegetable moussaka would also make excellent vegetarian options to pair with this elegant wine. The citrus and mineral notes in the Kallisto will uplift and balance the flavors in these dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Spanakopita
By Kay Chun
About. The Mercouri Estate, nestled in the western Peloponnese on the plateau of the Ichthis peninsula, boasts over 150 years of winemaking history. Founded in 1864 by Theodoros Mercouri, this family-owned estate is renowned as the Greek home of Refosco, an Italian varietal introduced by Theodoros himself. Today, the 40-acre vineyard grows 15 other varieties of Greek, French, and Italian origin, including the captivating blend of Assyrtiko and Robola in the Mercouri Kallisto.
The 2020 Mercouri Estate Kallisto, an intriguing blend of 80% Assyrtiko and 20% Robola, pours a bright and light yellow hue. The nose reveals wet stone minerality, which gracefully complements the perfumes of citrus fruits such as citron and fresh lemon. Medium-bodied, the wine's palate highlights flavors of pear, quince, and grapefruit zest, enlivened by soft, orange peel acidity and a delicate touch of salinity that lingers in the long, refreshing finish.
The Peloponnese Peninsula, where Mercouri Estate resides, is a large landform in southern Greece, characterized by its diverse mesoclimates and terroirs, ideal for premium viticulture. Native grape varieties such as Agiorgitiko, Moschofilero, and Mavrodaphne produce everything from fresh, mineral-laden white wines to rich, ageworthy reds.
In recent years, the modern Peloponnese wine industry has flourished, making it one of the most viticulturally productive regions in Greece. The seven PDO-level appellations and 17 regional appellations scattered across the area encompass a wide range of Greek and international grape varieties, including Assyrtiko, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Refosco, and Cabernet Sauvignon (scroll down further for a note on the early history of Peloponnese wine).
Assyrtiko, one of Greece's top white varieties, is best known for its association with the volcanic island of Santorini. This versatile grape produces wines in various styles, from crisp, mineral-forward whites to rich, nutty dessert wines like Vinsanto.
Robola, another prominent white grape variety, is primarily grown on the Ionian island of Cephalonia. This variety produces fresh, lightly aromatic citrusy wines that beautifully complement the bold Assyrtiko in the Mercouri Kallisto blend.
The 2020 Mercouri Estate Kallisto is an exquisite representation of the winemaking prowess of the Peloponnese region. This enchanting white blend showcases the unique characteristics of Assyrtiko and Robola, creating an unforgettable wine experience.
Note: Early winemaking history in the Peloponnese. As in much of Greece, winegrowing on the Peloponnese Peninsula dates back thousands of years. Homer referred to the area as Ampeloessa, meaning "full of vines". More generally, the region is home to the famous ancient city state of Sparta and the religious (and athletic) center of Olympia. The name Peloponnesus means "Island of Pelops", referring to the mythic King of Pisatis whose territory including Olympia.
The Middle Ages was a particularly fruitful time for Peloponnese winegrowing, and the port of Monemvasia became known as a trading post for the famous sweet wines of Malvasia. The Venetians, who ruled much of the Aegean Islands, exported this wine across Europe to the cities of London, Paris and Florence.
The beginning of Ottoman rule in the 16th Century saw a significant reduction in vineyard land. By the early 19th Century, many of the best vineyard sites were planted with the Corinthiaki grape variety for the production of raisins rather than wine.