International Wines

Many of the international vineyard wines are made from varieties that are not cultivated or are not common in Greece. However, even those that come from varieties common in Greece (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay) have a different character from their domestic counterparts, due to the different soil and climate conditions in the country of cultivation.

A dry red wine from France, made from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, would make a great start. It gives the opportyunity to compare this typical blend between Greece and the Old World country, which leads the way in winemaking. For an introduction to the New World, a dry red from Chile, featuring the Carménère variety, is just what you need. In terms of white wine, a Pinot Grizio from Italy is considered a representative start.

Between wine producing countries soil, climate, winemaking techniques and grape varieties differ. These differences are reflected in wine.

Let's take Chardonnay, a variety cultivated worldwide, as an example. In the temperate climates of France, Italy and the Balkans, Chardonnay wines have aromas of apple, citrus and herbs. On the palate, their minerality and acidity are noticeable. In the warmer climates of California and New Zealand, the grapes ripen sooner, imparting tropical fruit aromas and buttery flavors to the wine. There are dozens of examples, with other varieties.

There is no standard occasion to enjoy an international vineyard wine. However, it is common to look for an Italian or French sparkling wine at celebrations and anniversaries. Also, it is quite typical to accompany a napolitana with an Italian, Chianti-type wine.

Italians and the French are experts in creating sparkling wines. A wine of this kind is ideal for any party. As for dinner, the wine you choose is determined by the food served. Poultry and fish go well with white wines, fatty meats go well with reds, while smoked fish goes well with a rosé one.

If the dinner includes dishes with grilled vegetables, mushrooms and light meat, then the case of Carménère is ideal. But if it involves Thai dishes or sushi with tuna, shrimp and salmon, then go for a Garnacha rosé. If the dinner consists of vegetarian dishes, a white prosecco will go well.

Cool and shady places are necessary. The upright position of the bottle is suitable for sparkling and semi-sparkling wines, while the sideways position is suitable for quiet ones.

If bubbles exist, serve the wine at refrigerator temperature. Still dry whites and sweet reds are served at 12°C, while 15-18°C is the temperature range of still dry reds.

An interesting cocktail, with a Sicilian temperament, consists of rye whiskey, simple sugar syrup, lemon juice and Nero d'Avola, in a ratio of 2:1:1:1. Adding ice and a little bit of Cointreau will kick things up a notch. Fizz, also with an Italian personality, brings Asti Martini, gin and tonic in the same glass, in a ratio of 3:1:2. A little bit of black pepper and two or three thin slices of lime will offer extra character.