Papagiannakos Retsina 2022
With a history that traces back to the year 1919, Papagiannakos Winery stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of a family dedicated to producing exceptional wines that truly capture the essence of Greece's native grape varietals. This esteemed winery, owned and operated by the Papagiannakos family, seamlessly blends the wisdom passed down through generations with contemporary winemaking techniques, resulting in wines that beautifully showcase the unique terroir of the region. Nestled upon the sun-drenched hillsides of Attica, the winery's vineyards benefit from the harmonious balance created by the influence of the nearby sea and the region's continental climate. It is within this extraordinary microclimate combined with the rocky and mineral-rich soils that grapes of exceptional quality and character flourish. The native grape varietals, such as Savatiano, Malagouzia and Agiorgitiko, find their true potential in this environment, allowing the winery to present the incredible diversity and richness of Greek viticulture. At Papagiannakos Winery, utmost importance is placed on the pursuit of quality. Every aspect of the winemaking journey, from tending to the vineyards to the precise process of bottling, is executed with meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for sustainable practices. Under the guidance of Vassilis Papagiannakos, the winery's winemaker, the combination of traditional methods and innovative techniques creates a seamless harmony between timeless elegance and modernity, evident in every bottle produced. From the crisp and vibrant white wines that tantalize the senses to the rich and velvety reds that leave a lasting impression, each offering from Papagiannakos Winery is a testament to their unwavering dedication to excellence. Whether indulging in the mineral-driven Savatiano, experiencing the exquisitely aromatic Malagouzia, or savoring the robust and complex Agiorgitiko, every sip encapsulates the true essence of Greek winemaking. Papagiannakos Winery invites you to embark on a journey filled with flavors and aromas that will transport you to the heart of Attica's vineyards, preserving the legacy of this sacred land and the devotion that has been poured into every drop of their distinguished wines.
Retsina wines hold a special place in the world of wine, representing a unique and ancient tradition that can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Greece. These wines are known for their distinct flavour profile, aromatic qualities and their connection to Greek culture and heritage. What sets Retsina wines apart is the addition of pine resin during the winemaking process. Traditionally, this resin was used as a sealant for the wine vessels, protecting the precious liquid from oxidation and spoilage during transport and storage. Over time, the resin began to impart its characteristic flavour and fragrance to the wine, creating the distinct taste that is synonymous with Retsina. The base grape variety used in making Retsina wines is typically Savatiano, a white grape variety grown in Greece. Savatiano provides a neutral canvas for the resin to shine, allowing its unique flavors to take center stage. Alongside Savatiano, other grape varieties such as Roditis and Assyrtiko are also sometimes used. Although Retsina wines have a long history and traditional roots, winemakers today are experimenting with different approaches to create new expressions of this ancient style. Some producers are utilizing modern winemaking techniques and aging the wine in oak barrels, introducing additional complexity to the flavour profile. This has resulted in Retsina wines that showcase a balance between tradition and innovation. Retsina wines are not just a taste of Greece, but also a glimpse into ancient winemaking traditions that have remained relevant throughout history. With their unique flavour profile and strong cultural ties, Retsina wines offer an authentic and captivating experience for wine enthusiasts looking to explore the rich heritage of Greek wine.
Savatiano, the historical white grape variety of Greece, has long been a prominent presence in the country's vineyards. Whether it stands alone or is part of blends or PGI wines, Savatiano plays a significant role in the production of dry white wines. While it may have been overlooked in the past, recent developments have transformed Savatiano into a truly remarkable grape variety. Today, the new and more contemporary profile of Savatiano wines has captured the hearts of even the most discerning wine lovers. These wines exude distinct aromas of yellow fruit and freshly cut grass, showcasing a round mouthfeel and a well-balanced presence. Achieving this new profile required immense efforts from producers in Attica and Central Greece, where Savatiano is widely cultivated. Through careful harvesting, they ensured the ideal acidity, while prefermentation-maceration and low fermentation temperatures injected the grape with freshness and enhanced aromatic intensity. The selection of specific clones from each terroir added complexity, and the exclusion of aged, goblet-pruned vines contributed to viscosity and length. Savatiano has emerged from its historical shadows to become a true gem in the world of Greek winemaking. With its revitalized profile and exceptional quality, Savatiano deserves recognition and appreciation from wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Papagiannakos Retsina 2022 is a fascinating rendition of the traditional retsina style, offering a unique experience that combines the familiar characteristics with a touch of modernity. Crafted exclusively from the Savatiano grape variety, this dry white wine from the Mesoagaia appellation showcases the mastery of Papagiannakos winery. Upon pouring, the wine reveals a beautiful blond colour that entices the senses. On the nose, there is an inviting aroma of pine, reminiscent of the classic retsina style, accompanied by a delicate and refreshing strain of lemon. This aromatic combination adds a distinctive layer of complexity to the wine. With its impeccably balanced profile, Papagiannakos Retsina 2022 showcases the winemaker's skill in harmonizing the flavors and textures. The fusion of pine and lemon notes is seamlessly integrated, resulting in a wine that appeals to even the most discerning palates. The traditional resinous character of retsina is complemented by a refreshing acidity, creating a compelling and well-rounded drinking experience. When it comes to food pairings, this wine truly shines alongside Mediterranean hors d’oeuvres, seafood and fish. Its vibrant flavors and crisp acidity make it a perfect match for the vibrant, fresh ingredients commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine. Whether it's a plate of olives, feta cheese or grilled octopus, Papagiannakos Retsina 2022 elevates the flavors and adds a delightful touch to the dining experience. The grapes for this exquisite retsina wine are sourced from north-facing vineyards in S.E. Attica. With vines that are 50 years old and grown in non-irrigated limestone soil at an altitude of 100 meters, the terroir lends distinctive characteristics to the final product. The grapes are carefully harvested around mid-September, ensuring optimal ripeness and flavour development. During vinification, classical white wine fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with strict temperature control between 16-18°C. It is during this fermentation that pine resin is added from selected pine trees of Attica. This addition remains true to the traditional retsina production, infusing the wine with the unique resinous flavors that have become synonymous with the style. The Papagiannakos Retsina 2022 is a remarkable example of a new version of the traditional retsina style. Its fine aroma of pine and lemon, paired with its beautifully balanced profile, makes it a standout choice for those seeking a refreshing and unique wine experience.
The Papagiannakos family can be credited for saving many old Savatiano vineyards from uprooting, and their modern range is greatly likeable, including this vibrant, refreshing, minimally-resinated Retsina. Great summer wine. - Falstaff, 89/100 Points
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Savatiano
Country - Greece
Region - Attica
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12.5%