2024 Moinoterra Vilana Archanes Crete Greece

The Moinoterra 2024 Vilana is a compelling expression of Crete's most widely planted white grape. Aromas of lemon, pear, orange blossom and jasmine are framed by subtle notes of vanilla wafer from partial oak fermentation. The wine gains momentum on the palate, where concentrated citrus flavors, coastal herbs and a salty, sea-spray minerality give it more character than the nose initially suggests. Vilana is not generally associated with long aging, but the eight months on the lees and modest oak influence add enough structure to suggest a slightly longer drinking window. Sourced from 32-year-old vines planted near the archaeological site of Vathypetro at 450 meters in elevation, this is a fresh and distinctive white. (ML)