INSIDER'S PICK: 2023 TSANTIRIS WINERY BEGLERI PGI IKARIA (GREECE) $22.99

One constant about the world of wine is that there are always new things to find out about and learn, no matter how long you have been in the business. Grape varieties in particular seem to constantly emerge out of the woodwork from Europe as more consumers start to care about tasting the native and authentic wines of historic regions, instead of forcing them to serve up a Chardonnay like ever other place. Ikaria is one of the smaller North Aegean islands, but is rich in Greek mythology as both the birthplace of the God Dionysos and the landing place of its namesake, Icarus, after flying too close to the sun. With centuries of relative isolation many of these islands have their own grape varieties naturally evolve to their conditions, and Begleri is the white that has landed here. Similar in some ways to the famed Assyrtiko grape of Santorini in the South Aegean, this pops immediately with a rich perfume and tropical fruits, but also zesty citrus and magnolia blooms. Lots of texture on the palate as well that intensifies the orange citrus and juicy white fruits, with a zingy finishing combo of acidity and lingering grapeskin dryness. This is a LOT of fun to mix into your white wine rotation, especially with Mediterranean dishes with lots of bold flavor and textures, capable of handling roasted vegetables, white meats and salty olives or capers with ease.

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