Top 5 Greek-Inspired food pairings for greek wine
Summer holidays are well under way and some lucky readers may be catching up on this latest blog from their sun-lounger or deck chair, or accompanied by a chilled glass of rosé or even a Greek white wine. Others may be joining us on this August's 'virtual booze cruise' - where for each week this month we are exploring a different coastal Mediterranean wine region. This week we are of course in Greece and right now, on our website, you can pick up some great offers on a parcel of limited stock Greek wine.
In this blog I have assembled some of my favourite Greek dishes and paired them with top Greek wines for you to enjoy. Some long-time readers will remember a 'Top 5 Greek Wines' blog we published a while back - check it out to remind yourself of those pesky Greek pronunciations.
1). TZATZIKI, HUMMUS AND FLATBREADS with ATLANTIS WHITE 2019 ESTATE ARGYROS
Bursting with stone fruit and lemon aromas, Atlantis is a prime example of simple yet effective Assyrtiko, ideal for lighter flavoured starters and seafood.
The quintessential Greek mezze sharing starter - fresh tzatziki and rich hummus with warm flatbreads. The acidity of Assyrtiko cuts through the hummus, while the cucumber in the Tzatziki keeps the palate refreshed.
2). PAN FRIED COD with THEA MANTINIA MOSCHOFILERO 2017 SEMELI ESTATE
A delightful Moschofilero, aged on the lees for 5-months to give the wine a textured mouth feel. Aromas of dried tropical fruits and herbs, full bodied but suitably balanced with acidity.
The wine is quite complex and aromatic and enjoys taking centre stage, a high quality and very fresh piece of white fish cooked simply might be the best supporting act. Some flavours could be added such as sautéed spinach or other seasonal vegetables and feta, baked in a casserole style would work well.
3). MOUSSAKA with ESTATE RED EPANOMI 2017 KTIMA GEROVASSILIOU
Epanomi is a delicious red blend with local Limnio adding a perfumed elegance not dissimilar to Pinot Noir. Spice and black fruits from the Syrah add more weight to the wine which becomes more concentrated and robust, but the vineyard is surrounded by the sea and the resulting breeze ensures a freshness to the wine.
Moussaka seems perfect for this red blend. Much like the wine it is a blend of delicate flavours in the aubergine and a richness from the cheese, all brought together by herbs and spices in the mince. Mirrored by the wine these two create a pantheon of flavours fit for the gods! Check out this recipe to recreate the perfect Moussaka at home.
4). SOUVLAKI with JEUNES VIGNES DE XINOMAVRO 2019 THYMIOPOULOS VINEYARDS
Xinomavro is the Greek answer to Nebbiolo, an elegant, complex and perfumed wine, that can be made in an age worthy style. Thymiopoulos opts to use young vines in this wine, creating a youthful expression of the grape. This is a wine that can be drunk on release and even chilled.
Souvlaki is like a kebab but the meat is grilled in small pieces on horizontal skewers as opposed to a larger vertical skewer, as is typical with a donner kebab. The meat is usually then put in a flat bread, served with a range of sauces and even chips! A glass of gently chilled Xinomavro and a Souvlaki sound like the perfect summer BBQ alternative.
5). SOUTZOUKAKIA (MEATBALLS) with THYMIOPOULOS ATMA RED 2018 THYMIOPOULOS VINEYARDS
Again a red from Thymiopoulos, Atma is bursting with red cherry fruit and flashes of Mediterranean herbs. The grapes are grown at 600m altitude and this slightly cooler Naoussa vineyard site brings a delightful freshness to the wine. Medium bodied with balanced acidity and a long finish.
Soutzoukakia is a wonderful Greek dish, perfect for a family weeknight dinner. Mince of beef or pork are used with generous herb seasoning to make baked meatballs. They are served with a rich and thick tomato sauce. The herbal character of the Atma will work well with the meatballs, while its freshness with cut through the richness of the sauce.
Try these dishes at home, pair with your favourite Greek wines and let us know how you get on @robersonwine. All these wonderful wines can be found on our website and some feature in our August discounted collection.
