Estate Argyros Atlantis White 2023

Estate Argyros Atlantis White is a vibrant and refreshing white blend consisting predominantly of Assyrtiko (90%), complemented by Athiri (5%) and Aidani (5%), sourced from ungrafted vines aged between 10 and 60 years. In the glass, Atlantis White presents a pale lemon-green hue. The nose offers medium intensity aromas focusing on pure fruit, including citrus and subtle floral notes. On the palate, the wine is dry with crisp acidity and a medium body, delivering flavors of grapefruit, pear, and a hint of crushed oyster shell, culminating in a refreshing finish. Vinified in stainless steel vats at controlled temperatures of 58–64° F over approximately three weeks, Atlantis White is then matured for four months in stainless steel, preserving its fresh and charming character. This wine is intended to be enjoyed young, within three years of the vintage, to appreciate its vibrant acidity and minerality. Serve with a moderate chill around 46–50° F. Cheers!

Estate Argyros Atlantis White 2023 is a versatile Greek white wine that pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes, thanks to its crisp acidity and mineral-driven profile. Its bright citrus and saline notes make it an ideal companion for seafood, particularly fried options like calamari, anchovies, or smelt, where the wine's freshness cuts through the richness of the dish. Grilled fish such as sea bass or red mullet also harmonize beautifully with its vibrant character. For vegetarian fare, consider pairing it with Greek salads featuring feta and olives, or dishes like dolmades and stuffed peppers, where the wine's acidity complements the flavors. Light poultry dishes, such as lemon-herb roasted chicken, also benefit from its refreshing qualities. Overall, Atlantis White's balance and brightness enhance a wide range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, making it a delightful choice for diverse culinary experiences.

Estate Argyros, situated in Episkopi Gonia on the island of Santorini, Greece, is a family-owned winery with a rich history dating back to 1903. However, the Argyros family's involvement in viticulture extends even further, with roots in the 18th century. Over four generations, the estate has grown to become the largest private vineyard owner on Santorini, encompassing over 120 hectares of land.

The winery's vineyards are renowned for their ancient, ungrafted vines, some exceeding an incredible 200 years in age. These vines thrive in Santorini's unique volcanic soil, which is rich in pumice and ash, providing natural resistance to phylloxera and contributing to the distinct minerality of the wines. The island's arid climate, strong winds, and scarce rainfall have led to the development of the "kouloura" vine training system, in which vines are woven into basket shapes close to the ground to protect the grapes and conserve moisture.

Estate Argyros is particularly celebrated for its Assyrtiko wines, which showcase the grape's characteristic acidity and mineral notes. The estate's flagship Assyrtiko is sourced from vines over a century old and is fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve its purity and freshness. Additionally, the winery produces the Atlantis White, a blend of Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani, offering a more approachable expression of Santorini's terroir.

Another highlight of Estate Argyros is its Vinsanto, a traditional sweet wine made from sun-dried Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri grapes. The grapes are dried for several days before fermentation and then aged for years in oak barrels, resulting in a complex wine with flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and honey, balanced by vibrant acidity.

Under the leadership of Matthaios Argyros, the fourth generation of the family, the estate continues to blend tradition with innovation. A new, state-of-the-art winery was established in 2017, incorporating modern winemaking techniques while honoring the family's legacy. Estate Argyros remains committed to sustainable viticulture, employing organic practices and meticulous vineyard management to ensure the production of high-quality wines that reflect the unique character of Santorini.

Through its dedication to preserving ancient vines, embracing the island's distinctive terroir, and producing exceptional wines, Estate Argyros stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and innovation of Santorini's winemaking heritage.