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New Wines of Greece – a high-powered contingent of winemakers and educators from the world’s oldest winegrowing region – is making its second pilgrimage to Australia for complimentary tastings following its popular visit last year.
These wine tastings are expected to be popular and you are advised to book early. There is renewed interest in Greek wines in Australia on the back of an increasing number of Australian winemakers planting Greek varieties.
Yiannis Karakasis MW
The masterclasses will again be led by wine educators Yiannis Karakasis MW and Grigoris Michailos. “The New Wines of Greece masterclasses help to develop a more detailed picture of Greek wine across its many regions and varietals,” Voyatzis said. “We wanted to continue the story from 2015 and also ensure that anyone new to Greek wine this year would find it just as educational.”
Showcasing innovative styles and native varietals, 20 wineries including Domaine Skouras, Estate Argyros, Gaia Wines and Gentilini Winery & Vineyards will visit Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide from 19-25 June for trade tastings, masterclasses and dinners and lunches for the trade and media.
Consumers will also be able to learn more about Greek wines with dinners in Sydney and Melbourne.
Some familiar faces from last year’s contingent will be joined by first-time visitors to Australia to highlight exciting varietals in that signature Greek “eternally modern style”.
From the Peloponnese region to Northern Greece, Santorini, Crete and the islands, winemakers, educators and grapegrowers from all over the country look forward to sharing their wines, ranging from zesty Assyrtikos to vibrant Xinomavros.
Sydney trade tasting
When: Monday 20 June, 11am to 5.30pm.
Where: Establishment (level 2) 252 George Street, Sydney.
Melbourne trade tasting
When: Thursday 23 June from 11am to 5.30pm
Where: The Westin Hotel, 205 Collins Street, Melbourne.
Sydney and Melbourne masterclasses
10am: A Wine Odyssey: Greece from North to South Part 1. This masterclass will introduce you to the key wine regions and grape varieties of Greece. From north to south and from east to west, this one-hour session will highlight the diverse terroirs, styles, authenticity and uniqueness of modern Greek wine.
12pm: For the love of Assyrtiko: from Santorini all over the world. When was the last time you fell in love with a grape variety? From the mineral-driven dry wines of Santorini to the noble sun-dried, luscious sweet Vinsanto wines, the expressive versions from mainland Greece and the promising Australian new entry, Assyrtiko, can blow your mind. Prepare for a full-throttle masterclass!
2.30pm: The Rising Stars: Εmerging Greek varieties. With more than 300 indigenous grape varieties, Greece can offer excitement to all those eager to explore something new and different. This masterclass will unlock all the rising stars of Greek wine and focus on their potential in the Australian market.
4pm: A Wine Odyssey: Greece from North to South Part 2. A perfect pair with North to South Part 1 and a worthwhile session on its own, this masterclass will continue to explore key wine regions and grape varieties of Greece.
To book your place at the trade tastings or masterclasses, phone Liquid Ideas on 02 9667 4211 or email here.
The Greeks are also running private masterclasses for retail, hotel and restaurant groups during their time in Australia.
Consumer dinners
Aqua Dining
When: 6.30pm on Tuesday 21 June
Where: Paul Street & Northcliff Street, Milsons Point NSW 2061
Bookings: www.aquadining.com.au or (02) 9964 9998
Price: $95 per person – four courses with matched wines.
Elyros
When: 7pm on Friday 24 June
Where: 81 Burke Road, Camberwell VIC 3124
Bookings: www.elyros.com.au or (03) 9882 8877
Price: $100 per person.
Greek wineries making the trip:
Alexakis WinesBoutari
Cavino S.A.
Domaine C. Lazaridi
Domaine Hatzimichalis
Domaine Porto Carras
Domaine Sigalas
Domaine Skouras
Estate Argyros
Gaia Wines
Gentilini Winery & Vineyards
KtimaPavlidis
Lyrarakis Wines
Palivou Estate
Santo Wines
Semeli
Theopetra Estate
Thymiopoulos Vineyards
Troupis Winery
Tsantalis Vineyards & Wineries