Gavalas Winery, Posta (Wines of Greece), Santorini, Greece, 2024

Producer Profile

Gavalas family winery, one of the oldest wineries in Santorini, lies in the traditional village of Megalochori.

This stone building used to be an old canava-winery, following the traditional architecture of the ancient Thira. With respect to the local culture, the winery has retained all the original features of the winery, such us cellars, grape stomping rooms and old entrances. In addition, the family has created a modern section with high tech equipment to produce high quality wines. The aim of Gavalas family is to highlight the characteristics of Santorini’s ‘terroir’. The fourth-generation winemaker is George Gavalas and the fifth is his son, Vagelis. With respect to the local varieties, they are focused on limited production bottlings. Gavalas winery vinifies the most vibrant grape variety in Greece, Assyrtiko, as well as Aidani, Mandilaria and Mavrotragano. To show the richness of the land, they are also the only winery in Santorini that vinifies the indigenous rare varieties of Katsano and Voudomato.

Viticulture

Assyrtiko grapes are sourced from young vines younger than 30 years old from vineyards in Megalochori, while Monemvasia grapes are sourced from Paros Island. Athiri grapes are sometimes added to the blend.

Winemaking

Hand-picked grapes. A classic white wine fermentation at 14-16 °C in stainless steel vats. Maturation with fine lees for about 3- 4 months in stainless steel vats.

Tasting Note

Aromas of green apple and citrus are echoed on a palate laced with fine stoney minerality from high quality Assyrtiko. All supported by a medium body and crisp acidity.

Food Matching

Creamy salad and pasta dishes, fish and just as it is, on its own by the glass.