Muscat Mencia Roditis 2001

One of the most widely grown and easily recognized wine grape varietals in the world is the Muscat, an ancient grape with an exceptional amount of versatility. For centuries, Muscat varietal grapes have been used all over Europe for the production of wonderfully fruity wines of many different shades and colors, which, with their strong 'grapey' flavor have come to be known as a quintessential fine wine grape. Their relatively high acidity also means they are ideal for the production of sparkling wines, and the fizzy Muscat wines of Italy are widely agreed to be amongst the best in the world. In more recent years, New World countries have shown a huge amount of flair when it comes to the Muscat grape, and have had plenty of success in allowing its natural and vibrant character to come through in the bottle.

This vividly rosé colored grape varietal has been grown in and around the Attica region for centuries, and due to its elegant characteristics and fantastic flavors, it has gained popularity all over Greece over the past twenty-five years. Nowadays, you'd be just as likely to find vineyards growing Roditis grape varietals in the Peloponnese mountains, in Thessaly, Macedonia and many other parts of the country. Indeed, on the slopes of the Peloponnese, Roditis grapes are exclusively grown for the production of the wines of AOC Patra, where the award winning dry white wines of the region are made from 100% Roditis grapes, and are prized by wine collectors and Greek wine fans alike.

Roditis grapes produce the best results when they are cultivated to relatively very low yields, with the mountainous slopes giving them both the perfect amount of sunshine and the unique range of minerals in order to ripen and maintain their delightful flavor. Wines made from Roditis grapes tend to hold quite strong citrus flavors, making them an ideal drink for refreshment on a hot day. Their long, complex after-tastes are what they are most revered for, making them a great accompaniment for the local seafood cuisine of the region they are grown in.

Additional Information on Greek Wines