2009 Nemea Driopi Classic Agiorgitiko (Greece)

Greek wines are largely unexplored territory for me, particularly the reds. Based on historical reputation you would typically try them with a bit of trepidation, but as with so many wine producing countries and regions these days, the quality of winemaking has improved markedly. And there’s no questioning this wine’s quality. It was consumed over lunch at The Apollo, an impressive Greek restaurant in Sydney, and was a great accompaniment to the food.

The region is Nemea, which is close to Corinth. The estate Driopi, and the grape variety Agiorgitiko, which is according to some, Greece’s most noble indigenous red variety. It’s medium bodied and provides the kind of drinking that one looks for at lunch. Ripe plum fruit, appealing spice, and notes of leather adding some savouriness. It’s balanced, highly drinkable, and was great with some slow-cooked lamb. If anything it lacks a bit of funk or rusticity, or something to mark it out as really unique, but there’s no denying the enjoyment here. Lovely wine.


Rated:

RRP: ? (Was $60 for a bottle in the restaurant)
ABV: 13.5%
Closure: Cork
Importer: Deja Vu Wine - www.dejavuwines.com.au


Red