The Santo is the Assyrtiko that launched a thousand ships in my opinion, at least metaphorically speaking. Santorini remains one of Greece's greatest and most visited destinations and the wines from this small volcanic island have set fire to the imagination (pun intended). Assyrtiko is the grape that has resonated with most travelers and has crossed over now into the mainstream. Production on this island is small and the world demand for the wine has far exceeded the production, so we have seen the grape migrate to the mainland. It has become so popular we are seeing plantings in the new world too, like California and South Australis. Santorini wine prices have crept up significantly in recent years. Plus, the last two vintages, both 2023 and the soon to release 2024, are very limited due to severe drought conditions. This could mean even higher prices to come. Fingers crossed for a successful 2025 vintage. Santo was one of the original wines in the market though and was many people's first introduction to the grape outside of visiting Santorini. The wine that was always been reasonable by comparison. But even this wine's price has gone up and at around $30, it was still one of the island's best values. Well, the legacy importer and the winery have parted company after decades of business together and we were able to pick up the remaining inventory in the marketplace at a very sharp price. We are sharing those savings by giving you a throwback price from nearly a decade ago. I have tasted this wine several times recently and it shows all the hallmarks of great Assyrtiko - dried apple and citrus rind fill the palate, followed by intense mineral tones and a touch of salinity. This is exciting white wine that resonates with its long lingering finish. And of course, if this is your first visit to Santorini through its wines this has the feeling of great Chablis, Gruner Veltlliner and Albarino.

I'm quite certain that Assyrtiko will remain as my very favorite white wine from Greece. I had the pleasure of trying over a half dozen new ones this week. This release from Santo was a standout. It had green pear fruit, minerals, fresh cut lemon and a light overlay of honey on the upper palate. There is a lingering finish that is clean, clean, clean. This is the perfect hot weather wine! It is a great pairing for shellfish, salmon or roasted chicken.

Lemon zest and pith forward nose then leans against an oyster shell minerality, both wrapping around a softly fruited core of apple and pear. The palate is brisk and almost tart with great acidity and a saline finish. This is an absolute stunner of a classic Santorini Assyrtiko and it's everything you want your summery white wines to be. Crisp, clean, and easily ready for porch, pool or party duty. Don't miss out on trying something new, this the next terroir-driven wine you should be drinking.