Assyrtiko wines are predominantly made using the Assyrtiko grape variety, which is native to the island of Santorini in Greece. This grape is known for its high acidity, citrus flavors, and mineral notes, making it a popular choice for producing crisp and refreshing white wines. However, some winemakers also blend Assyrtiko with other grape varieties to create different styles of wine.
Other Grape Varieties Used in Assyrtiko Wines
While Assyrtiko is the star of the show in Greek Assyrtiko wines, there are a few other grape varieties that are commonly used in blends to add complexity and enhance the overall flavor profile. These include:
- Athiri: Often blended with Assyrtiko to soften its intense acidity and add floral and fruity notes.
- Aidani: Another grape that is frequently blended with Assyrtiko to bring out its aromatic qualities and contribute to a more rounded mouthfeel.
- Robola: While not as common as Athiri and Aidani in Assyrtiko blends, Robola is sometimes used to add a unique herbal character to the wine.
It’s important to note that these grape varieties are mainly found in the Greek islands, where Assyrtiko is also commonly grown. Winemakers in other parts of Greece may use different grape varieties in their Assyrtiko blends based on local traditions and terroir.
Characteristics of Assyrtiko Grape
To understand why Assyrtiko is the primary grape variety used in Greek Assyrtiko wines, it’s essential to look at its characteristics:
- High Acidity: Assyrtiko grapes are naturally high in acidity, giving the wines made from them a crisp and refreshing quality.
- Citrus Flavors: The grape is known for its citrus aromas and flavors, with notes of lemon, lime, and grapefruit shining through in the wine.
- Mineral Notes: Assyrtiko wines often exhibit mineral notes, thanks to the volcanic soils of Santorini where the grape is predominantly grown.
- Age-Worthiness: Assyrtiko wines have a good aging potential, with some high-quality examples developing complex flavors and aromas over time.
Blending with Other Grape Varieties
While Assyrtiko is a fantastic grape variety on its own, blending it with other grapes can create wines with different flavor profiles and characteristics. Some reasons why winemakers choose to blend Assyrtiko with other grape varieties include:
- Balance: Blending with grapes like Athiri and Aidani can help balance Assyrtiko’s high acidity and add more complexity to the wine.
- Aromatic Qualities: Other grape varieties bring their own aromatic qualities to the blend, enhancing the overall aromatic profile of the wine.
- Rounded Mouthfeel: Blending can soften Assyrtiko’s sometimes austere character and create a more rounded and approachable wine.
- Regional Tradition: In some regions of Greece, it is traditional to blend Assyrtiko with other local grape varieties to create wines that reflect the terroir and winemaking heritage of the area.