Gavalas Winery, Santorini Natural Ferment (PDO Santorini), 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

The 100% Assyrtiko grapes come from old vines over 50 years old, are primarily from the Megalochori area. Santorini’s climate features mild winters and hot, long summers. Low rainfall combined with strong winds results in very low yields, typically around 20 hl/ha. To shield the vines from the wind, they are pruned into a low basket shape known as ‘kouloura’. Meanwhile, the high moisture levels in the soil allow it to absorb water overnight and release it to the vines during the day.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-picked and destemmed, crushed and cold soaked for 4-8 hours with skin contact at 10°C. The juice was then fermented naturally, using only indigenous yeasts. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks; Long fermentation of 2 months and maturation with fine lees for 6-8 months.

Tasting Note

Aromas of citrus and stone fruits accompany the typical saltiness and minerality of Assyrtiko. Full body, with high acidity balanced buy ripe tropical notes to give a satisfying and delicious wine with a long-lasting finish.

Food Matching

Seafood, fatty fish and poultry.