2021 Alexakis Assyrtiko, Crete

The history of winemaking in Europe can be traced almost 5000 years back to the Ancient Minoan civilization, who were based primarily on the island of Crete. From there, they were succeeded by the Mycenaeans and then eventually the Greeks, who brought the vine to Italy (one ancient Italian variety is today still called "Greco" and then to France with their colony Massalia (modern-day Marseilles). 

Alexakis is today the most important winery on Crete, helping to modernize winemaking on the island while maintaining some very ancient traditions. The Assyrtiko grape originates on the island of Santorini but today is grown throughout the islands of Southern Greece. Alexakis' Assyrtiko is thirst quenchingly delicious, with a characteristically Greek floral nose and a bright, crisp finish. The label of this particular bottling pays homage to the ancient origins of winemaking with a set of Minoan runes found in a cave near the vineyard.