Towards the end of summer, the allure of Santorini grows stronger for aficionados of fine wine, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. To fuel this excitement, JetFlo and Wine Rose are proud to present an exquisite treasure: Estate Argyros Vinsanto Late Release. This stunning cuvée, steeped in tradition and crafted with precision, is a testament to the timeless beauty and winemaking prowess of Santorini.
The Estate
Estate Argyros boasts the largest private vineyard holdings in Santorini, spanning over 120 hectares. This land, cultivated over four generations, is a testament to the Argyros family’s dedication and passion for viticulture. Despite the numerous lucrative alternatives for land use on the island, the estate remains devoted to producing world-class wines. The vineyards, with an average age of over 70 years and some parcels exceeding two centuries, yield an average of just 21 hl/ha. These ancient vines, trained using the unique Kouloura and Koulouri systems, produce grapes of exceptional quality under the challenging Santorinian conditions.
The Wine
The Vinsanto of Estate Argyros encapsulates the essence of Santorini’s winemaking heritage. Originating from Assyrtiko (80%), Athiri (10%), and Aidani (10%) grapes, this wine is a Protected Designation of Origin Vinsanto Santorini. The harvest, conducted in early September, results in impressively low yields of around 6 hl/ha. Following the ancient tradition, grapes are sun-dried for 14 days before undergoing an uninoculated fermentation in old cement vats at 25°C, which lasts over eight months. This natural fermentation process ensures the retention of the original characteristics of the grapes. The maturation process is rigorous, with three years in old cement vats followed by sixteen years in a mix of exhausted French and Russian oak barrels, ranging from 300 to 1350 liters. The result is a wine with remarkable aging potential, poised to be at its best from now to beyond 2200s.
The Cuvée
This Vinsanto is a marvel of balance and complexity. With an alcohol content of 13.8% and a residual sugar level of 285 gr/lt, it offers a rich, luscious experience. Its pH of 3.07 contribute to its impeccable structure and freshness. The meticulous aging process imbues it with depth and character and an enduring legacy of patience and craftsmanship. The wine's aroma and flavor profile showcase a hypnotic blend of dried fruits, honey, and nuts, accompanied by subtle oak influences from its extensive maturation. Each sip reveals layers of caramel, citrus peel, and spices, balanced by a vibrant acidity that keeps it fresh and lively even after years of aging.
How to Experience & Buy
To fully appreciate this remarkable Vinsanto, we recommend serving it slightly chilled. It pairs beautifully with an array of desserts, from dark chocolate to fruit tarts and traditional Greek sweets like baklava. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with aged cheeses to complement its sweetness and enhance its complex flavors. With a limited total production of just 4,850 bottles, this Vinsanto is a rare gem.
All this said, secure some bottles of such nectar and cheers to unforgettable wine experiences!
